1/28/2019 Forecast Update
FORECAST SUMMARY
Monday, January 28th, 2019 through Friday, February 1st, 2019
PM-2.5: 24-hour Fine Particulate concentrations are expected to be mostly Good through Thursday with a mix of Good and some low Moderates Friday.
FORECAST DISCUSSION:
A snow storm tracking through the state Monday will drop several inches of snow. Strong southeast winds turn northwest later Monday as the storm pulls off to the northeast. Strong winds last through Wednesday and very cold temperatures become predominant Tuesday into Thursday, lake effect snows also develop during this time-frame in the most prone areas. Wind chills will be at dangerous levels so be prepared if you need to spend time outdoors this week. By Friday, high pressure settles over the state with winds weakening.
As for air quality, Good fine particulate levels are expected through Thursday with the cold temperatures, and predominantly strong northwest wind. High pressure may allow for more stagnant conditions Friday, so fine particulate may increase into the low-Moderate range.
EXTENDED FORECAST:
Extended models show a warm up for the weekend as high-pressure slides east of the state and southwest winds develop. Warmer temperatures will likely lead to snow melt and increased low-level moisture. This scenario often causes increased fine particulate. Due to the threat for wide-spread Moderate fine particulate, this forecast will be updated Friday to detail conditions for weekend and early next week.