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.

Friday, July 19 - Sunday, July 21, 2019

Ozone

Good to USG levels.

Particle pollution (PM_2.5)

Good to Moderate levels.

Weather outlook

Friday - The heat is the big weather story thus far today, but severe storms are expected in northern Wisconsin later this afternoon into tonight. This has been a more recent development and it is recommended for residents along and north of a line from Minneapolis to Green Bay to remain weather aware heading into this afternoon. Air quality looks to degrade slightly due to the hot temperatures, while stronger winds and storm potential should keep most near Moderate AQI. Some isolated USG areas have the potential to form along the lakeshore, however, likely north of Milwaukee.

Weather map for Friday, July 19, 2019. Graphic is courtesy of the NOAA/NWS Weather Prediction Center.

Saturday - A frontal boundary starts to slowly push south through the state with high pressure developing behind it. Temperatures will be hot once again in the southern portions of the state, while uncertainty remains due to likely cloud and precipitation development. These factors also lead to uncertainty in the air quality forecast, with Good to Moderate AQI currently forecast. Some pockets of USG conditions may result along the frontal boundary if cloud cover and precipitation remain isolated.

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

Sunday - Showers continue early in the south as the front slides across our southern border. Northerly winds then take hold across the state, bringing in much cooler and drier air. Air quality will transition from isolated to scattered Moderate AQI along the front to Good statewide.

Extended outlook

High pressure allows northerly winds to continue for the beginning of next workweek, with Good AQI forecast.

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 - A Guide to Air Quality and Your Health [exit DNR].