Current Air Quality & Forecast
Air Quality Forecast
December 8 – December 12: A resilient high-pressure ridge situated over the Western United States will continue to impact our region with a gradual warming trend, moderate wind gusts, and an enduring weeks-long dry spell. Daily temperatures in the northernmost areas of our forecast region will be slightly cooler than areas along the Big Sur coast and southern Monterey County. Santa Cruz and Aptos will range from mid 40s – to high 60s; whereas the Big Sur coast and southern Monterey County will see highs well into the 70s. Wednesday and Thursday will be the warmest days for all. Chances of precipitation will remain at or near 0%, allowing potential fuels to continue drying. Breezy conditions with consistent wind speeds around 8 mph and gusts up to 14 mph, in conjunction with unseasonably dry weather, increases fire risks. However, the high-pressure ridge may finally break down on Friday, and chances of rain will slightly increase to between 2-8% in most cities. Ozone levels should remain within State standards, therefore, the ozone AQI will remain GOOD. Windy conditions can help ventilate smoke from home heating and backyard burning in certain areas, such as the San Lorenzo Valley, but it may also increase dust along the Highway 101 corridor. Therefore, PM2.5 (smoke) and PM10 (dust) AQIs may increase to MODERATE.
Particulate Matter Sensor Network