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 Monday, August 24 - 4:15 p.m.

Tuesday's Forecast (August 25)

Winds will turn southerly as weakening high pressure moves into the eastern Great Lakes and low pressure moves into northern Ontario. We’ll forecast statewide Moderate (Yellow) AQI PM2.5 due to remnant wildfire smoke with the best chance for Good (Green) AQI PM2.5 to the northwest. Moderate (Yellow) AQI ozone will also be possible along the Lake Michigan shoreline in areas where the lake breeze moves inland.

Wednesday's Forecast (August 26)

A frontal boundary will continue pushing through the state with breezy northwest winds developing behind the front. Ahead of the front, the southeastern half of the state may continue to observe Moderate (Yellow) AQI PM2.5 through the a.m. hours, but Good (Green) AQI will be developing in these areas through the p.m. hours.

Thursday’s Forecast Trend (August 27)

Air quality is expected to remain satisfactory despite another push of light Canadian wildfire smoke into western areas.

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].