Fine Particulates (PM 2.5) – Code YELLOW
Regional Maximum PM 2.5 Concentrations:
Wednesday, March 12, 2008:
PM 2.5 – YELLOW (66 AQI or 23.3 µg/m3)
Short-Term Discussion: Rather quiet at the moment as high pressure has temporary control over our weather. Rain associated with a weak low-pressure system appears to be passing to our north at the moment. We expect some clouds later this afternoon and possibly a light shower but nothing real significant. A couple of low-pressure areas will ride up the Ohio River Valley over the next few days. With no real strong weather systems crossing the region, air-quality levels have remained largely in the moderate range.
Partly cloudy overnight with some areas of fog and haze developing by morning and temperatures falling into the mid 30s. Clouds will increase later in the day as a weak low-pressure system works its way into the region from the Ohio Valley. Precipitation could arrive by late afternoon. Temperatures on Friday will be quite mild pushing 60 degrees depending on when the clouds and possible rain develop. Increasing humidity levels, southerly winds and relatively high background concentrations should keep Friday’s fine-particulate concentrations in the code YELLOW
(moderate) range.
Extended: We’ve had a train of weak low-pressure systems rolling through the east this past week. The last and strongest of these systems should cross the region early Sunday morning. Colder and dryer air will filter in behind this system lowering air-quality readings along with the temperatures. This should be temporary as southerly mild flow reestablishes itself early next week.
Tags: air quality forecast
