Current Air Quality & Forecast
Air Quality Forecast
September 4 – September 8: A cutoff low-pressure system off the Canadian west coast and PNW has been driving onshore winds to the Central Coast for the last few days. This has led to cooler temperatures and a robust marine influence at night and into the mornings. Expect these conditions to last into the weekend. GFS models are indicating the low-pressure system will take a more southerly path towards the Central Coast. This system would appear to be a more “winter like” storm with cooler temperatures, moisture and breezy conditions. However, precipitable water (PWAT) measurements are relatively low, therefore while the moisture content is high, precipitation will likely be minimal. Think more drizzle than rain. Temperatures will range from the mid-50s to the mid-70s at the coast and mid-50s to the high-80s inland. Ozone levels should remain below State standards, therefore ozone AQIs will remain GOOD. Moist conditions in the region will keep PM10 (dust) AQIs in the Salinas Valley at GOOD. Wildfires around the state and in Canada could bring local PM2.5 (smoke) AQIs to MODERATE however, good ventilation and westerly winds should help keep smoke away from the North Central Coast Air Basin (NCCAB).
Particulate Matter Sensor Network