Current air quality outlook

Department meteorologists use monitoring data along with weather predictions to determine when and where an air quality notice is needed. The meteorologists submit daily air quality forecasts for eight Wisconsin cities to EPA's AirNow website. Below is the current air quality forecast for Wisconsin, which will be updated as needed.

Forecasts are reported using the Air Quality Index (AQI). For more information about the AQI and the federal ozone standard, see Wisconsin Statewide Air Quality Notices.

Monday, May 20 - Wednesday, May 22, 2019

Ozone

Good to Moderate levels.

Particle pollution (PM_2.5)

Good to Moderate levels.

Weather outlook

Monday – Mostly cloudy conditions alongside northerly winds look to make for a cool start of the workweek. We also stay dry thanks to high pressure, with AQI forecast values remaining in the Good range.

Weather map for Monday, May 20, 2019. Graphic is courtesy of the NOAA/NWS Weather Prediction Center.

Tuesday – Winds begin to strengthen and turn easterly as we approach Tuesday morning, becoming strong out of the ESE and gusting up to 35-40 mph. This will push cool lake air across the region, keeping temperatures well below seasonal values. AQI is expected to remain Good, with precipitation chances moving from west to east beginning late Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, with storms possible near the IL border.

Weather map for Tuesday, May 21, 2019. Graphic is courtesy of the NOAA/NWS Weather Prediction Center.

Wednesday – Rain continues early, before we look to dry out as the system weakens considerably and strong southeasterly winds abate and turn SSW. Good AQI to begin the day may transition to Moderate thanks to southerly transport and increasing temperatures, especially near the lakeshore.

Extended outlook

The lull in activity looks to continue Thursday, with winds becoming westerly and temperatures expected to rise yet again. We then see precipitation chances return to the forecast Friday, although temperatures do look to stay above average. Good to Moderate AQI is currently forecast, with the higher values expected in the SE and along the lakeshore.

Air Quality Index (AQI) ranges

For more information about AQI ranges and colors, see the U.S. EPA's Air Quality Index - A Guide to Air Quality and Your Health [exit DNR].