Department meteorologists use monitoring data and weather forecast models to predict Wisconsin's future ozone (O₃) and fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) air quality using the Air Quality Index (AQI) [exit DNR]. This forecast is updated frequently, and when warranted, an Air Quality Advisory is issued. Below is the latest air quality forecast for Wisconsin.

Updated Tuesday, August 4 - 6:50 p.m.

Wednesday's Forecast (August 5)

A front will continue to meander through SE Wisconsin, where rain and weak storms will be possible throughout the day. A cleaner, high pressure air mass settling over Iowa should lead to Good (Green) AQI across the northwest. Despite precipitation chances, we’ll forecast Moderate (Yellow) AQI PM2.5 elsewhere due to high dew points mixed with light wildfire smoke impacts.

Thursday's Forecast (August 6)

A boundary will hang around southern Wisconsin, and although diminished, rain and weak storm chances will continue, mainly to the SE. PM2.5 concentrations are likely to remain elevated south of the boundary where high dew points and remnant wildfire smoke reside. Ozone will also have a chance to become elevated in these areas if enough sun can reach the surface. Moderate (Yellow) AQI will be possible to the south and southeast, with Good (Green) AQI forecast elsewhere.

Friday’s Forecast Trend (August 7)

Air quality is expected to degrade within the Lake Michigan lake breeze, potentially reaching ozone advisory criteria.

Forecast Maps:

The black dots represent the approximate location of Wisconsin's air quality monitors. The black borders approximate Wisconsin's Reporting Area boundaries on EPA's AirNow website [exit DNR].

Air Quality Index (AQI) ranges

For more information about AQI ranges and colors, see the U.S. EPA's Air Quality Index (AQI) Basics [exit DNR].