FORECAST SUMMARY: Monday, March 24, 2025, through Friday, March 28, 2025
PM-2.5: 24-hour daily average Fine Particulate concentrations will range generally Good (Green AQI) through mid-week with Moderates (Yellow AQI) possible late in the forecast period.
FORECAST DISCUSSION:
Although the calendar shows spring, winter-like conditions can be expected thanks to a low-pressure area across the northern portion of the region. Snow showers are possible across much of the state, with mixed precipitation or rain further south. Northern locations may see accumulations of snow, while little to no accumulation is anticipated further south. Along with precipitation chances, a strong northwest wind will keep temperatures cold for this time of year. As this storm system pulls away, precipitation on Tuesday should be kept to the most prone northwest flow lake effect areas. Weak high pressure moves in by mid-week, but cooler temperatures remain as we are positioned under a cool northwesterly wind pattern.
As for air quality, the strong northwest winds on Monday will keep fine particulate levels in the Good range. As the storm system moves east Tuesday, surface winds decrease and precipitation ends; however, northwest winds at upper levels continue to prevent pollution from building up. With the anticipated weather conditions, you can expect Good air quality through Thursday. By Friday, the next storm system moves in, bringing a warm front across the southern portion of the state. There is some uncertainty on the placement this far out, but the warmer temperatures and precipitation could cause the fine particulate levels to increase into the low Moderate range, especially in locations south of or close to the boundary.
EXTENDED FORECAST:
The extended weather models show a warm front lifting north to south through the state Friday into Saturday. If this forecast pans out, warmer air will move into the state, along with chances for precipitation. Air quality during the first half of the weekend is expected to range from Good north of the boundary to low Moderate near and south of it.
Next Forecast update: Friday, March 28, 2025