Air Quality Forecast

September 11 – September 15: Expect a cool down to seasonal temperatures as low-pressure migrates southward over the PNW and onshore winds intensify over the Bay Area and Central Coast.  A reduction in fire activity has been followed by a decrease in smoke production from the Timber and Plaskett Fires in Big Sur. Onshore winds for the remainder of the forecast period indicate smoke will be transported east into Fort Hunter Ligget and Lockwood with diffuse smoke lingering over the southern portion of the Salinas Valley; however, barring any unexpected increase in fire activity, expect GOOD to MODERATE PM2.5 (smoke) AQIs with the occasional UNHEALTHY FOR SENSATIVE GROUPS (USG)  for communities directly adjacent to the fires. Temperatures will range from the low-50s to the low-80s at the coast and low-50s to mid-90s inland. The cooldown in temperatures inland indicates ozone production will be at normal levels; therefore, ozone AQIs will remain GOOD.  25 mph wind speeds with up to 45 mph gusts (Saturday) in the Salinas Valley could bring PM10 (dust) AQIs to MODERATE.

More Information: Timber Fire and Plaskett Fire Smoke Outlook

MBARD Smoke Sensor Network

Click Here for a description of the Air Quality Index

Regulatory Air Monitoring Stations