Air Quality Forecast

August 11 – August 15:  Smoke from the Timber Fire is currently impacting the surrounding areas including the Monterey peninsula.  As of this forecast, impacts to the peninsula have been MODERATE. The leading edge of the low-pressure system has been inducing southerly flow, transporting smoke to the peninsula. As long as that southerly flow is maintained, transport winds will direct smoke to the peninsula. As the low-pressure system moves inland later this week, transport winds could shift westerly, providing some respite from the smoke.   Low-pressure off the coast is depressing local temperatures for the region as well as allowing for a deepened marine layer.  Along with the troughing pattern, there is potential for some moisture; however, do not expect chances to exceed 15%. Friday, the warming trend will resume; however, warming will remain below normal for this time of year. Temperatures will range from the high-50s to the low-70s at the coast and mid-50s to low-90s inland. Due to cooler temperatures, ozone production will be at normal levels; therefore, ozone AQIs will remain GOOD.  20 mph wind speeds with 30 mph gusts in the Salinas Valley could bring PM10 AQIs to MODERATE.  Low pressure over the region will promote atmospheric mixing and ideally keep PM2.5 (smoke) AQIs at MODERATE.

MBARD Smoke Sensor Network

 

Regulatory Air Monitoring Stations