FORECAST SUMMARY: Friday, August 23, 2024, through monday august 26
OZONE:
8-hour average Ozone concentrations are expected to range mostly Good (Green AQI) through Thursday, then levels could increase towards Moderate (Yellow AQI).
PM-2.5:
24-hour daily average Fine Particulate concentrations will average mostly Good.
FORECAST DISCUSSION:
After a week full of Fall-like temperatures, we end the work week with a slight increase in temperatures as we’re at the cusp of a return to Summer-like normal temperatures. The High-pressure system that has been providing us this Pure Michigan weather will be moving off to the southeast throughout today and tomorrow. This will give way for warmer temperatures to move in as we go through this weekend due to wind direction shifting to more southerly flow. As we approach Sunday, temperatures are expected to reach into the mid-80s with Monday seeing a return to the upper 80s and even the 90s in some areas. With this heat, humidity is expected to increase as well due to winds bringing in both warmer temperatures and moisture. We kick off next week with heat indices well into the 90s with upper-90s in more southern areas. For air quality, PM-2.5 concentrations look to remain in the Moderate range due to lingering wildfire smoke from out west, which is mainly staying in the upper atmosphere. This week, a mulch fire broke out in Detroit which caused numerous mornings to have occasional USG-level PM-2.5 concentrations. Luckily, though, those concentrations only lasted for an hour or so and quickly dissipated as mornings carried on. For the beginning half of the weekend, Ozone does not look to be a threat due to unfavorable winds and slightly cooler temperature compared to how we end the weekend. As temperatures increase as we get into Sunday, Ozone concentrations can be expected to ramp up and increase throughout the day with Monday seeing a rather favorable environment for Ozone development. We will be taking a look at Monday throughout this weekend and will make changes to the forecast if concentrations warrant it.
EXTENDED FORECAST:
As mentioned above, Summer looks to return for the beginning part of next week, with midweek and beyond cooling down after a Low-pressure and cold front roll through on Tuesday into Wednesday. Air Quality should remain in the Good to Moderate range.
Next Forecast Update: Monday, August 26, 2024