Air Quality Forecast

August 19 – August 23: High-pressure over the western states juxtaposed with a low-pressure system over the Eastern Pacific is the main driver of weather patterns for the next few days. Expect inland and high elevation areas to receive the majority of the warming with conditions at coastal areas remaining mild as long marine stratus remains. This is good news for the Timber Fire as morning fog and northwesterly winds help keep things cool and transport smoke over the Santa Lucias away from populated areas. As of this forecast, smoke impacts (PM2.5) have been generally MODERATE.  MBARD expects GOOD-MODERATE AQIs as long as northwesterly flow is maintained. Temperatures will range from the mid-50s to the high-70s at the coast and mid-50s to low-100s inland. Despite warm temperatures inland, 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.

MBARD Smoke Sensor Network

 

Regulatory Air Monitoring Stations