Current air quality outlook

Department meteorologists use monitoring data and weather forecast models to predict Wisconsin's future air quality using the Air Quality Index (AQI) [exit DNR]. If warranted, an Air Quality Notice is issued. Below is the latest air quality forecast for Wisconsin.

Monday, August 8 - Sunday, August 14, 2022

Ozone

Good to Moderate levels.

Particle pollution (PM_2.5)

Good to Moderate levels.

Weather outlook

Monday - As a surface low passed through the state this morning, a cold front and associated precipitation followed suit, bringing cloud cover and temperatures decreasing into the upper-50s to mid-60s. As the day progresses, the northerly winds will confine temperatures to the mid-60s to low-70s, with occasional wind gusts upwards of 10-20 mph. Good AQI is expected statewide.

Weather map for Monday, August 8, 2022. Graphic is courtesy of the NOAA/NWS Weather Prediction Center.

Tuesday - Surface high pressure is expected to set in over WI, assisting with clear skies and calm winds. Temperatures are expected to remain in the mid-70s, keeping local ozone production minimal and allowing for Good AQI to persist.

Weather map for Tuesday, August 9, 2022. Graphic is courtesy of the NOAA/NWS Weather Prediction Center.

Wednesday - The surface high pressure center is expected to dip just south of the state, turning winds to southerly over the lake. Temperatures may creep into the low 80s, assisted by the weak southerly flow. Moderate AQI for both PM2.5 and ozone is forecast for the Lake Michigan shoreline, with the rest of the state expected to remain in Good AQI.

Extended outlook

Long-range meteorological models suggest another round of surface high pressure beginning Thursday, originating from southern Saskatchewan and Manitoba. This high pressure will likely be accompanied by high temperatures in the mid-to-upper 70s as well as lows in the low 50s. Good AQI is forecast through the remainder of the work week. Current guidance shows increased chances for Moderate AQI over the weekend, as a developing low over the central U.S. coupled with the surface high over the southeastern U.S. may produce a channel of reinforced southerly flow into the Midwest.

Note: All weather maps are courtesy of the NOAA/NWS Weather Prediction Center [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].