FORECAST SUMMARY:
Monday, April 25th, 2022, through Monday, May 2nd, 2022
OZONE: 8-hour average Ozone concentrations are expected to be Good through the forecast period.
PM-2.5: 24-hour average Fine Particulate levels will range between Good and low Moderate.
FORECAST DISCUSSION
After a warmer weekend, cooler temperatures move in early this week and some snowflakes are even possible Tuesday. Cool high pressure settles in from the north Wednesday. This high will take its time exiting the region, lingering nearby the rest of the week. This will allow for dry conditions, and a slow warm up as the week progresses. The next system looks to hold off until Sunday.
As for air quality, clouds earlier in the week and cooler surface and upper-level temperatures will keep ozone Good through the forecast period. Good fine particulate is also expected to start the week; however, as winds weaken past mid-week some low-end Moderates may develop especially in the southeastern portion of the state. Winds begin switching more easterly/southeasterly late in the week as the high slides east of the state. At this time, wind speeds should keep the atmosphere well mixed where fine particulate higher than low Moderate is not anticipated.
EXTENDED FORECAST:
Extended forecast models show the next system bringing chances for rain late Saturday or Sunday. Ozone should remain Good, but some Moderate fine particulate may develop ahead of the Sunday system. If the timing remains consistent, the associated front should pass Sunday with northerly winds Monday allowing for Good pollution levels.
Forecast updated by Stephanie M. Hengesbach: Monday, April 25h, 2022
Next forecast update: Monday, May 2nd, 2022