Air Quality Forecast

August 27: There’s a slight chance of sporadic showers throughout the day as moisture from the remnants of Tropical Storm Iselle moves into the region. It is unlikely any precipitation that does fall will be “wetting rain” or enough to impact the Timber and Plaskett Fires. There’s also a low, but non-zero chance of thunderstorms or even dry lightning strikes. Additionally, breezy onshore winds developing into 20-30 mph gusts along the coast and nocturnal drying will increase fire risks above the marine layer inversion around 1,000 ft, where conditions continue to be warm and dry. Temperatures below the inversion will be around seasonal averages. Coastal areas will be the coolest with highs only reaching the mid-60s to 70s. Highs will increase to around 80-90 degrees further inland, but the warmest areas in southern and central Monterey County and San Benito County may see temperatures peak in the triple digits. PM2.5 (smoke) AQIs are expected to be GOOD to MODERATE due to possible impacts from the wildfires. PM10 (dust) AQIs will be GOOD but may reach MODERATE along the Hwy 101 corridor due to wind gusts and agricultural activity. Ozone levels should also remain below State standards and the AQI will be GOOD.

MBARD Smoke Sensor Network

 

Regulatory Air Monitoring Stations