Air Quality Forecast

August 28 – September 1: Rain Friday morning as the remnants of Tropical Storm Iselle transport moisture to the region.  Along with precipitation are chances of thunderstorms that coupled with the recent dry conditions could increase fire activity.  Chances of thunderstorms should last until about mid-afternoon. Regarding the Timber and Plaskett Fires in Big Sur, increased fire activity has seemed to increase smoke production.  Smoke will continue to be transported over the Salinas Valley; however, due to the nature of transport winds, smoke is expected to remain at elevation and is not expected to affect ground level AQIs for the time being. MBARD expects GOOD-MODERATE AQIs as long as this pattern is maintained. Expect a cool down trend over the next week as low-pressure takes hold with chances of additional precipitation by mid-week. Temperatures will range from the mid-50s to the low-80s at the coast and low-50s to high-80s inland. Despite warmer 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