06/12/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: Monday, June 12, 2023, through Friday, June 16, 2023

PM-2.5: 24-hour average Fine Particulate concentrations are also expected to be mostly Good to Moderate through the forecast period.

OZONE: 8-hour average ozone concentrations are expected to be mostly Good with the potential for scattered Moderate during the periods with calm winds

FORECAST DISCUSSION: The first week saw a weeklong episode of high ozone through much of the Lower Peninsula, which was unlike our usual one or two day periods of elevated ozone. 

The second week was unprecedented with extreme smoke from Canadian wildfires causing a week of fine particulate advisories and alerts.  Unseasonably dry weather combined with persistent northerly wind flow brought wildfire smoke down over much of the Midwest and Eastern Coast. 

While we occasionally had a monitor or two briefly cross into the Low Unhealthy category, our monitors mostly stayed in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG) category.  That means the portion of the population with pre-existing respiratory ailments were the most at risk.  Since most everyone could see, and sometimes smell, the smokey haziness in the air, we recommended limiting strenuous outdoor activities for everyone in our Air Action Advisories and Alerts areas. 

Fortunately, we should return to normal Air Quality conditions this week.  The rains and shifting winds which occurred, during Sunday, pushed the worst of the smoke out of the State.  The Ontario fire warning system is now indicating no new fires in the areas north of us and has downgraded the fire alert status to “Low”.  Cooler temperatures and favorable winds should also keep ozone in check.  The smoke models are indicating some smoke from western states and provinces entering the MN/WI area on Wednesday.  But should that smoke reach us, it should be elevated into the upper atmosphere and not be an issue for breathable air.

We are expecting a bit cooler than normal weather to start this week.  An upper-level low will provide clouds and scattered showers through Tuesday.  A warmup should start on Wednesday, but high temperatures should stay in a comfortable range.  The best chance to reach Moderate will be when the winds slack off under sunny skies and some localized stagnation could occur.

Since we are not expecting any Air Quality issues in the next few days, this forecast will be updated on Friday provide the weekend outlook.  But if conditions change quickly, like we saw last week, this forecast will be upgraded as necessary.

EXTENDED FORECAST: Air Quality should be generally Good to Moderate going into the weekend.

Forecast updated by: Forecast updated by Jim Haywood: Monday, June 12, 2023

Next Forecast update: Friday, June 16, 2023

06/10/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: Saturday, June 10th, 2023, through Monday, June 12th, 2023

PM-2.5: PM-2.5 concentrations are expected to be in the mid-high Moderate range

OZONE: Ozone concentrations are expected to be in the Good to mid-Moderate range.

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

We start off this morning with all Air Quality Alerts being discontinued and some monitors just below the USG threshold for PM-2.5. We will see this throughout the day today with some hourly concentrations spiking into the USG range before falling back into Moderate. More specifically, the mid-morning hours may see increased PM-2.5 concentrations mainly from morning commutes, albeit Saturday, the atmosphere is currently sensitive to particulate matter so any additional source of particulate matter will be noticeable. Winds start to increase as the morning carries on and shifts to a more WSW direction which will help our PM-2.5 situation by decreasing values and keeping additional wildfire smoke from entering our region. The approaching Low-pressure system and cold front will also help us out in this regard.

Shifting gears to Ozone, today, Saturday, may see an increase in Ozone in west and southwest Michigan due to winds coming from the SW. This will blow pollutants sitting over Lake Michigan into the WSW Michigan areas. No widespread issues with Ozone are expected, except for the occasional hourly USG reading. Overall, the 8-hour average for Ozone should be in the Moderate range as surface temperatures will be in the low-80s, upper-level temperatures in the low teens, and there will be a lingering layer of upper atmospheric smoke which will block some of the sun’s radiation.

Going into Sunday, the cold front will bring in off and on precipitation in the morning hours and throughout the day. Due to the frontal boundary coming down from the NW, sinking air behind the front may mix down wildfire smoke as it traverses the area. So, tomorrow, Sunday, may see increased hourly concentrations of PM-2.5, but overall averages should be in the Moderate range. The cold front will also noticeably drop temperatures into the 50s and 60s throughout Michigan with a true warmup not returning until Wednesday next week. Monday will continue the trend of cooler temperatures with winds shifting back to more NNW flow.

EXTENDED FORECAST:

A cooler start to the week is upon us, with winds shifting to more northerly again. We will keep an eye on the Ontario fires over the coming days to see if these northerly winds will bring wildfire smoke back to our area.

Forecast updated by: Alec Kownacki: Saturday, June 10th, 2023

Next Forecast update: Monday, June 12th, 2023

06/09/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: Friday, June 9th, 2023, through Saturday, June 10th, 2023

OZONE: Ozone concentrations are expected to be in the Good to mid-Moderate range.

PM-2.5: PM-2.5 concentrations are expected to be in the mid-high Moderate to USG range.

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

Winds start to shift throughout the day today as the weather pattern we have been under the past few days finally starts to change. Winds, which have been predominantly NNE this week, will shift to more NNW for today and eventually shift to more westerly later this evening into Saturday. The northerly component of the wind today will still pick up and bring wildfire smoke to the thumb region and southeastern parts of Michigan. The westerly component of the wind will help keep wildfire smoke concentrations out of the mid and western parts of the state. However, there may still be areas that see hourly USG concentrations the more west you go, but overall PM-2.5 concentrations should be in the Moderate range for mid and western parts of Michigan.

Winds tomorrow look to be mainly WSW which will help keep wildfire smoke out of the area for the time being. Some leftover PM-2.5 concentrations may still be in the area, but concentrations will be in the Good to Moderate range. Since winds will be WSW there is a chance of increased Ozone tomorrow, Saturday, for SW Michigan with some models showing hourly USG values. An air quality alert is not being planned for Ozone tomorrow, but this forecast will be updated and reevaluated tomorrow to look at updated models and forecasts.

EXTENDED FORECAST:

A change in weather pattern is upon us, with rain in the forecast for Sunday.

Forecast updated by: Alec Kownacki: Friday, June 9th, 2023

Next Forecast update: Saturday, June 10th, 2023

06/08/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: Thursday, June 8th, 2023, through Friday, June 9th, 2023

OZONE: Ozone concentrations are expected to be in the Good to Moderate range.

PM-2.5: PM-2.5 concentrations will be in the USG range with some hourly concentrations in the Unhealthy range.

AIR QUALITY ACTION DAY ADVISORY FOR THURSDAY JUNE 8TH AND FRIDAY JUNE 9TH UNTIL NOON

THE ACTION DAY ADVISORY INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING SOUTHERN MICHIGAN COUNTIES:

LAKE, MASON, NEWAYGO, OCEANA, ALLEGAN, KENT, MUSKEGON, OTTAWA, BRANCH, CALHOUN, KALAMAZOO, ST. JOSEPH, BERRIEN, CASS, VAN BUREN, BARRY, CLARE, CLINTON, EATON, GRATIOT, INGHAM, IONIA, ISABELLA, MECOSTA, MONTCALM, OSCEOLA, ARENAC, BAY, GLADWIN, HURON, MIDLAND, SAGINAW, SANILAC, TUSCOLA, GENESEE, LAPEER, SHIAWASSEE, HILLSDALE, JACKSON, LENAWEE, LIVINGSTON, WASHTENAW, MACOMB, MONROE, OAKLAND, ST. CLAIR AND WAYNE

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

Canadian wildfire smoke continues to drift into our area due to the NNE winds currently in place. The Ontario fires, which are directly impacting us, do not seem to be letting up. The current weather pattern appears to remain in place until at least tomorrow morning when the High-pressure system is expected to drift more south. This will open the door for a Low-pressure and associated cold front to approach the region Saturday afternoon and into Sunday. When this change in weather patterns occurs, we are expecting to see a shift in winds which will be more NNW instead of the current NNE which is bringing the smoke right towards us. But for the next day, we are still expecting PM-2.5 concentrations to exceed the USG range and into the Unhealthy range. We have noticed that these smoke plumes are coming in waves. This explains why for some hours we are seeing USG to Unhealthy PM-2.5 concentrations and for other hours we are seeing Moderate concentrations. But nonetheless, overall PM-2.5 concentrations will be in the USG to Unhealthy range until at least tomorrow, Friday, which is why this forecast will be updated tomorrow morning.

EXTENDED FORECAST:

Wildfire smoke looks to persist for the coming days, so overall air quality will remain poor.

Forecast updated by: Alec Kownacki: Thursday, June 8th, 2023

Next Forecast update: Friday, June 9th, 2023

06/07/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: Wednesday, June 7th, 2023, through Thursday, June 8th, 2023

OZONE: Ozone concentrations are expected to be in the Good to Moderate range.

PM-2.5: PM-2.5 concentrations are expected to be in the high Moderate range to USG, with some hourly concentrations in the Unhealthy range.

An Air Quality Action Day Advisory for Fine Particulate has been issued for Wednesday, June 7th into Thursday, June 8th, for some southern Michigan counties.

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

An Air Quality Action Day Advisory has been called for some southern Michigan counties due to elevated levels of Fine Particulate, or PM-2.5. Concentrations are expected to be in the USG range for many areas across southern Michigan due to Canadian wildfire smoke being brought into the area by northerly winds. Some hourly values may even eclipse the Unhealthy range threshold. Relatively light but persistent NNE winds will continue to push wildfire smoke from Canadian fires into our area for the coming days. A high-pressure system is dominating the area and is currently expected to stay over the Wisconsin/Upper Peninsula border until Friday which will continue the NNE winds. Earlier this week, Quebec, Canada fires were the driving emitter of wildfire smoke across the Midwest, but now it appears fires have sparked in northern Ontario. With NNE winds in place, smoke from Ontario fires will be brought to our area at least through tomorrow, Thursday. Because of this, the forecast will be updated tomorrow and on a day-to-day basis until the wildfire smoke subsides.

High PM-2.5 concentrations will be across the state of Michigan with Moderate concentrations in the northern lower peninsula and into the upper peninsula. When this forecast is updated, it will be determined if additional areas will need to be included in the Air Quality Advisory.

EXTENDED FORECAST:

Wildfire smoke looks to persist for the coming days, so overall air quality will remain Poor.

Forecast updated by: Alec Kownacki: Wednesday, June 7th, 2023

Next Forecast update: Thursday, June 8th, 2023

06/05/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: Monday, June 5th, 2023, through Wednesday, June 7th, 2023

OZONE: Ozone concentrations are expected to be in the Good to Moderate range.

PM-2.5: PM-2.5 concentrations are expected to be in the mid-high Moderate range with the possibility of hourly USG concentrations.

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

Last week saw multiple rounds of air quality alerts due to elevated levels of Ozone for much of Michigan, and even an air quality alert for fine particulate (PM-2.5) for the Upper Peninsula over the weekend. We catch a break this week as temperatures return to relative seasonal norms and winds shift to northerly flow.

To kick off the change in airmass is a cold front traversing the region throughout the day today, Monday, which may produce precipitation in areas. This will shift winds predominantly to northerly flow before becoming more northwesterly as Tuesday carries on and lasts through Wednesday. Due to the changes in winds, surface temperatures decrease slightly to the low-mid 80s for the lower peninsula. After today, upper-level temperatures, which help in the development of Ozone, decrease into the single digits Celsius for much of Michigan with upper-level winds coming from the north as well.

Air quality for the beginning half of the week will be interesting, especially for PM-2.5. Wildfire smoke from Canada is continuing to influence our area with the Seney monitor in the Upper Peninsula hanging around the USG threshold. According to the HRRR and RAP smoke models, near-surface smoke will hang around the area for the majority of today before leaving the area with help from the cold front expected this evening. This smoke will move south as the day carries on, so hazy skies and the possibility of smelling smoke are expected. Tomorrow, Tuesday, will more than likely have leftover PM-2.5 concentrations but should be less than what has been seen the past few days. Since these smoke models only forecast out for a day at a time, the forecast will be updated on Wednesday as wildfire smoke will still be up north in Canada. For Ozone, the cooler surface and upper-level temperatures cut off the production of Ozone, along with the northerly winds. However, sunlight throughout the day may push Ozone concentrations into the Moderate range, especially in populated areas, so Ozone will be in the Good to Moderate range through Wednesday.

EXTENDED FORECAST:

Winds stay northerly midweek with the majority of surface temperatures in the 70s, so Ozone should not be an issue. As stated above though, PM-2.5 concentrations will be reevaluated on Wednesday with an updated forecast.

Forecast updated by: Alec Kownacki: Monday, June 5th, 2023

Next Forecast update: Wednesday, June 7th, 2023

6/02/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: Friday, June 2, 2023, through Monday, June 5, 2023

Ozone: 8-hour average Ozone concentrations will range between Moderate and USG Friday, with reading between Good and Moderate the rest of the period.

PM-2.5: 24-hour average Fine Particulate through the period should range Good to low Moderate.

 

...AIR QUALITY ACTION DAY ADVISORY FOR FRIDAY, JUNE 2nd...

THE ACTION DAY ADVISORY IS IN EFFECT FOR THE FOLLOWING MICHIGAN COUNTIES...

IN WEST and central MICHIGAN:

ALLEGAN... BARRY... BENZIE… berrien… BRANCH... CALHOUN... CASS… CLINTON... EATON... GRAND TRAVERSE... HILLSDALE... INGHAM... IONIA... JACKSON... KALAMAZOO... KENT... LEELANAU… MANISTEE… MUSKEGON... Oceana… ottawa… MASON… ST JOSEPH AND van buren COUNTIES

IN Southeast MICHIGAN:

GENESEE... LAPEER... LENAWEE... LIVINGSTON… MACOMB… MONROE… OAKLAND… ST. CLAIR… SHIAWASSEE... WASHTENAW AND WAYNE COUNTIES

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

Hot, dry conditions end the workweek, along with another day of increased ozone levels. Thursday resulted in two monitors reaching USG along the western lakeshore and another six in central and eastern portions of the state. Increased ozone is likely again today (Friday), and we have a Clean Air Action Day in place covering the southern half of lower Michigan, extending north along the western shoreline counties up to Traverse City.

For the rest of the forecast period, a weak front sinks northwest to southeast through the state Saturday. This boundary brings some clouds and small chances for precipitation, along with a surface and upper-level wind shift to the east/northeast. Cooler surface and upper-level temperatures also settle in later Saturday and more so Sunday. While warmer surface temperatures remain in place Saturday, we feel clouds, scattered precipitation and winds shifting in direction will hamper a significant increase in ozone. Therefore, we are not continuing the Clean Air Action Day into Saturday and are forecasting Moderate ozone. We will, however, keep track of conditions and if areas start increasing where we feel USG may be reached, the forecast will be updated to USG triggering EnviroFlash notification for individuals signed up to receive them.

Cooler temperatures settling in Sunday should keep ozone in the Good to low Moderate range. By Monday, another stronger front sinks south through the state. This boundary brings clouds and more of an airmass clean out, but the downfall is there isn’t much precipitation associated with it. While areas could use some rain, this system will bring in cleaner air with ozone levels expected to range from Good to low Moderate.

Fine particulate levels should see a bit of improvement during the weekend, especially in the southeast where readings have been Moderate all week. Reading through the weekend are expected to range Good to low Moderate.

EXTENDED FORECAST:

High pressure settles in from Canada later Monday into Tuesday. Cooler temperatures and northeasterly winds should keep pollution no higher than low Moderate.

Next Forecast update: Monday, June 5, 2023. Forecast Updated by Stephanie M. Hengesbach

6/01/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: Thursday, June 1, 2023, through Friday, June 2, 2023

Ozone: 8-hour average Ozone concentrations will range between Moderate and USG.

PM-2.5: 24-hour average Fine Particulate should remain mostly Moderate.

 

...AIR QUALITY ACTION DAY ADVISORY FOR THURSDAY, JUNE 1ST AND FRIDAY, JUNE 2nd...

THE ACTION DAY ADVISORY IS IN EFFECT FOR THE FOLLOWING MICHIGAN COUNTIES...

IN WEST and central MICHIGAN:

ALLEGAN... BARRY... BENZIE… berrien… BRANCH... CALHOUN... CASS… CLINTON... EATON... GRAND TRAVERSE... HILLSDALE... INGHAM... IONIA... JACKSON... KALAMAZOO... KENT... LEELANAU… MANISTEE… MUSKEGON... Oceana… ottawa… MASON… ST JOSEPH AND van buren COUNTIES

IN Southeast MICHIGAN:

GENESEE... LAPEER... LENAWEE... LIVINGSTON… MACOMB… MONROE… OAKLAND… ST. CLAIR… SHIAWASSEE... WASHTENAW AND WAYNE COUNTIES

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

The current forecast trend continues as we move towards the end of the workweek. High pressure remains in place providing summer-like heat. Higher moisture levels in the western portion of the state may allow for scattered shower/storm development again Thursday afternoon, most generally in the western portion of the state near the afternoon/evening lake breeze. A lighter southeasterly flow Thursday switches to more of an easterly direction Friday. A light wind flow persists at upper levels and temperatures remain at readings conducive for ozone development.

Ozone was not worse than upper Moderate Wednesday, but many locations reported a few hours in the USG range with 8-hour averages not far from the USG threshold. Without a significant weather change to improve ozone conditions, we are continuing the Clean Air Action Day into Friday. The Action Day covers the southern half of lower Michigan, along with the west lakeshore counties further north towards Traverse City.

Fine particulate levels during the week have been mostly low to middle Moderate, and we anticipate readings remaining in that range the rest of the week.

Weather maps are hinting at a weak boundary Saturday. This system will not bring much, if any, precipitation, however, surface temperatures should be closer to normal and cooler upper-level temperatures move towards the region. This will hopefully aid in decreasing ozone concentrations. This forecast will be updated Friday to better detail expected weekend pollution levels.

EXTENDED FORECAST:

Air Quality should be generally Moderate, with possible USG this coming weekend into early next week.

Next Forecast update: Friday, June 2, 2023

Forecast updated by: Stephanie M Hengesbach. Thursday, June 01, 2023

5/31/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, through Thursday, june 1, 2023

Ozone: 8-hour average Ozone concentrations will range between Moderate and USG.

PM-2.5: 24-hour average Fine Particulate should remain upper Good to low Moderate.

...AIR QUALITY ACTION DAY ADVISORY FOR WEDNESDAY MAY 31st AND THURSDAY JUNE 1ST...

 

THE ACTION DAY ADVISORY IS IN EFFECT FOR THE FOLLOWING MICHIGAN COUNTIES...

IN WEST AND CENTRAL MICHIGAN:

ALLEGAN... BARRY... BENZIE… BERRIEN… BRANCH... CALHOUN... CASS… CLINTON... EATON... GRAND TRAVERSE... HILLSDALE... INGHAM... IONIA... JACKSON... KALAMAZOO... KENT... LEELANAU… MANISTEE… MUSKEGON... OCEANA… OTTAWA… MASON… ST JOSEPH AND VAN BUREN COUNTIES

IN SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN:

GENESEE... LAPEER... LENAWEE... LIVINGSTON… MACOMB… MONROE… OAKLAND… ST. CLAIR… SHIAWASSEE... WASHTENAW AND WAYNE COUNTIES

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

Summer-like heat continues over the state thanks to high pressure remaining in control. Increased moisture Wednesday and Thursday will allow for some cloud development during the afternoon along with a few pop-up showers or storms mostly in west Michigan along the lake breeze. Winds Friday look to switch to more of an easterly component; however, even with a change in wind direction the trend of warm temperatures and dry conditions continues.

Ozone in the USG range was seen Tuesday at some western lakeshore and a few central monitors. While 8-hour averages in much of the state stayed Moderate, averages were not far from the USG threshold and a few hours with concentrations in the USG range were seen. Some afternoon clouds and isolated precipitation may hamper ozone development in a few locations Wednesday and Thursday; however, much of the state will remain dry and mostly sunny. Considering we are under the same airmass for several days now and we’ve already seen increased pollution in many locations, we have decided to continue the Clean Air Action Day into Thursday. Also, since inland monitors have seen increases recently, we are extending the Action Day Thursday to encompass the southcentral portion of the state, including the cities of Lansing, Jackson, and Hillsdale.

Air Quality levels will be monitored during the day and if any forecast area not in the current Action Day look to exceed the USG threshold, the forecast will be updated from Moderate to USG triggering EnviroFlash notifications.

Fine particulate levels during the week have been ranging between upper Good and low Moderate. We anticipate increases in fine particulate as well, however, levels should not reach higher than low to middle Moderate.

The same airmass remains over the region until the coming weekend. Since the threat for increased ozone continues through the week, this air quality forecast will be updated daily until the threat ceases.

EXTENDED FORECAST:

 Air Quality should be generally Moderate to USG through the coming weekend.

Next Forecast update: Thursday, June 1, 2023

Forecast updated by: Stephanie M Hengesbach. Wednesday, May 31, 2023

5/30/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: Tuesday, May 30, 2023, through Wednesday, May 31, 2023

Ozone: 8-hour average Ozone concentrations will range between Moderate and USG.

PM-2.5: 24-hour average Fine Particulate should remain upper Good to low Moderate.

...AIR QUALITY ACTION DAY ADVISORY FOR TUESDAY MAY 30th AND WEDNESDAY MAY 31st...

 

THE ACTION DAY ADVISORY IS IN EFFECT FOR THE FOLLOWING MICHIGAN COUNTIES...

IN WEST MICHIGAN:

ALLEGAN... BENZIE… berrien… CASS… GRAND TRAVERSE... KALAMAZOO... KENT... LEELANAU… MANISTEE… MUSKEGON... Oceana… ottawa… MASON… ST JOSEPH AND van buren COUNTIES

IN Southeast MICHIGAN:

GENESEE... LAPEER... LENAWEE... LIVINGSTON… MACOMB… MONROE… OAKLAND… ST. CLAIR… WASHTENAW AND WAYNE COUNTIES

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

The weather forecast remains on track with dry conditions and above normal temperatures continuing through the week. Increased moisture the next couple of days could trigger very isolated showers/storms Wednesday or Thursday, but the chances for precipitation are very small and almost not worth mentioning.

As anticipated, ozone levels have been on an upward trend over the past few days and weather conditions yesterday resulted in 13 monitors reaching the USG range. With surface and upper-level temperatures increasing and winds taking on more of a southerly component, the trend of increased ozone will continue. There is an Air Quality Action Day for ozone in place for today (Tuesday) across the west Michigan lakeshore counties and for the southeast portion of the state. We are continuing this Action Day into tomorrow (Wednesday) and a few counties have been added to include the cities of Kalamazoo, Flint, and the surrounding areas.

Air Quality levels will be monitored during the day, and if any areas not in the current Action Day look to exceed the USG threshold, the forecast will be updated from Moderate to USG triggering EnviroFlash notifications.

Fine particulate levels have been ranging between upper Good and low Moderate. We anticipate increases in fine particulate as well, however, levels should not reach higher than low to middle Moderate through the period.The same airmass remains over the region until the coming weekend. With that, expected increasing temperature, humidity, and stagnation through the period. Since the threat for increased ozone continues through the week, this air quality forecast will be updated daily until the threat ceases.

EXTENDED FORECAST:

 Air Quality should be generally Moderate to USG through the coming weekend.

Next Forecast update: Wednesday, May 31, 2023.

Forecast updated by: Stephanie M Hengesbach. Tuesday, May 30, 2023

5/29/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: Monday, may 29, 2023, through tuesday, may 30, 2023

OZONE:  8-hour average ozone concentrations are expected to be mostly high Moderate inland with the potential for USG along the lakeshore and Southeast Michigan.

PM-2.5: 24-hour average Fine Particulate concentrations are also expected to be mostly Good to Moderate through the forecast period.

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

In terms of weather, the forecast has not changed from yesterday’s forecast…  The current dry weather and increasing temperature/humidity regime will continue through most of the upcoming week with no rain in sight. 

So far, our Air Quality has been mostly Moderate except one monitor in the Thumb region reaching USG, yesterday.  Sunday’s temperatures finally crossed into the lower 80’s and will continue to increase, every day, this week.  Dew points have been dry, in the 40-50 degree range, but will begin to increase, Tuesday, as winds become more southerly.

The models have been indicating that our Air Quality should stay mostly in the high Moderate range.  However, the concentrations have been increasing, each day of this weather pattern, and most of the stations in the state fell only a few ppb short of reaching the USG threshold, yesterday.  As such, I will side with caution and issue an Action Day Advisory for Tuesday for both the lakeshore counties and Southeast Michigan.  On these marginal high ozone days, actions taken by individuals could mean the difference between crossing into USG or staying Moderate.

I will be monitoring our Air Quality, today, and if any of our monitor stations looks to exceed the USG threshold, I will update their status to trigger EnviroFlash notifications.

Since we will be under the same air mass until the weekend, I expect each day to be a little worse than the last with the increasing temperature, humidity, and stagnation.  We typically do not issue Action Day Advisories two days in advance, therefore we will revisit and update this forecast Tuesday morning. 

EXTENDED FORECAST:

Air Quality should be generally Moderate to USG through the work week.

Forecast updated by: Jim Haywood: Monday, May 29, 2023

Next Forecast update: Tuesday, May 30, 2023

5/28/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: SUNday, may 28, 2023, through MONday, may 29, 2023

OZONE:  8-hour average ozone concentrations are expected to be mostly Moderate with the slight potential for scattered USG.

PM-2.5: 24-hour average Fine Particulate concentrations are also expected to be mostly Good to Moderate through the forecast period.

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

The current dry weather and increasing temperatures regime will continue through most of the upcoming week with no rain in sight.  Fortunately, our Air Quality is holding with readings in the Moderate range for both ozone and fine particulates.  Temperatures have been in the upper 70’s and dew points in the 40’s.  Sunday’s temperatures should finally cross into the lower 80’s and continue to increase, every day, this week.  Dew points should continue to stay in the dry, 40-50 degree range through Monday then start an increase into more humid air. 

The models are indicating that our Air Quality should stay in the Moderate range through Memorial Day.  There is the slight possibility that our monitor in the southwest corner of the state could creep near the USG range.  Areas west of downwind Detroit, like Ypsilanti, may see the same with the east winds.  But there is not enough evidence, yet, to justify an Action Day.  That said, I will be monitoring our Air Quality today and tomorrow, and if any of our monitor stations looks to exceed the USG threshold, I will update their status to trigger EnviroFlash notifications.

Since we will be under the same air mass for days to come, I expect each day to be a little worse than the last with the increasing stagnation.  Once we hit USG concentration levels, it will likely remain and worsen until the next frontal cleanout, which may not occur until next weekend.  As such, I will be updating this forecast Monday morning.

EXTENDED FORECAST:

Air Quality should be generally Moderate to USG during the upcoming work week.

Forecast updated by: Jim Haywood: Sunday, May 28, 2023

Next Forecast update: Monday, May 29, 2023

5/26/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: friday, may 26, 2023, through sunday, may 28, 2023

OZONE:  8-hour average ozone concentrations are expected to be mostly Good with the potential for gradual increasing into the Moderate range by the end of the weekend.

 PM-2.5:  24-hour average Fine Particulate concentrations are also expected to be mostly Good through the forecast period.

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

The current dry weather pattern will remain locked in place through the long weekend and into the early and midweek period next week with high pressure established over the Great Lakes region.  The wind regime for the holiday weekend will be generally easterly with daytime highs in the 70’s and chilly nighttime lows in the 40’s/50’s.  The humidity will be low with dew points in the 40’s under persistently clear skies.

This should provide Good Air Quality, for the most part, although areas west of Detroit may see a creep in ozone values due to stagnation as the weekend progresses.  A warmup starts on Monday with temperatures rising into the mid-80’s.  Winds will still be from the northeast and dew points are still low, but sitting under the same air mass for several days could start yielding more stagnation pollution. 

For that reason, this forecast will be updated Sunday morning to make sure Monday stays under USG levels.  Currently, Tuesday is the real day of concern as the winds become more southerly with increasing temperatures and humidity.  Sunday’s forecast will also give a better idea of what we can expect for Tuesday.

EXTENDED FORECAST:

Air Quality should be generally Moderate to begin the next work week.

Next Forecast update: Sunday, May 28, 2023

05/22/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: Monday, May 22nd, 2023, through Friday, May 26th, 2023

OZONE:  8-hour average ozone concentrations are expected to be mostly Good with the possibility for scattered Low Moderate during the first couple of days of the forecast period.

PM-2.5:  24-hour average Fine Particulate concentrations are also expected to be mostly Good to Moderate through the forecast period.

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

For those outside yesterday (Sunday), you may have notice that the sun appeared to be on a dimmer switch.  It was a bit surreal to have no clouds but gray skies and only weak shadows showing.  This was a result of wildfires in Canada sending elevated smoke down through the Midwest.  Fortunately, the layer of smoke is staying elevated and not filtering down to the ground in any significant amounts.  As of Monday morning, that layer of smoke is directly still over Michigan.  The models are predicting a lessening of the smoke layer as the week progresses, but we may have some of the smoke that will linger for a while.

In terms of our Air Quality, I am anticipating that the overhead smoke will not have much direct impact on our ground level Air Quality.  The models are predicting mostly clear skies all week and through the holiday weekend and Tuesday will likely be the warmest day of the week.  But the overhead smoke should dim the solar radiation enough to discourage significant ozone formation. 

A dry cold front will sweep through the region early Wednesday morning to clear out any surface level air contaminants.  Cooler, dryer air, along with high pressure will build in behind the front and keep our Air Quality mostly Good for the remainder of the work week.

The holiday weekend also looks mostly clear with warming by Sunday.  As a result, I will be updating this forecast on Friday but not anticipating any problems, at this time.

EXTENDED FORECAST:

Air Quality should be mostly Good begin the next work week.

Next Forecast Update: Friday, May 26th, 2023

05/19/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: Friday, May 19th, 2023, through Monday, May 22nd, 2023

OZONE: Ozone concentrations will range from the Good to Moderate range.

PM-2.5: PM-2.5 concentrations are expected to be in the Moderate range.  

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

This forecast summary will mainly focus on the wildfire smoke approaching Michigan from wildfires in Alberta, Canada. For the majority of the week, regional winds have been northwesterly which have been bringing wildfire smoke and associated PM-2.5 concentrations closer to the Midwest. Several states to our west have issued Air Quality Alerts for PM-2.5. One of the main driving components of PM-2.5 concentrations reaching the ground is the cold front traversing the area from NW to SE. In this situation, with the cold front moving through the area, the wildfire smoke essentially pools along the front and the air behind the front sinks, thus bringing PM-2.5 concentrations closer to the surface. This is why we are able to see PM-2.5 concentrations near the surface and the wildfire smoke aloft in the upper atmosphere because not all of the smoke reaches the ground.

In Michigan’s case, the wildfire smoke has travelled quite a long distance and that distance has helped to disperse some of the concentrations. The cold front is expected to cross Michigan throughout the day today so PM-2.5 hourly concentrations may increase into the high Moderate range. Along with a possible increase in hourly concentrations, some areas across Michigan may notice a smoke smell as the front approaches along with hazy skies which have been seen throughout this week. We expect the 24-hour averages for PM-2.5 to be in the Moderate range, but this event is worth noting, nonetheless. The front crossing Michigan along with the rain will help dissipate and disperse the concentrations further so we do not expect these concentrations to stick around. Western Michigan, especially the western UP, may experience a smoke smell more so than eastern Michigan because of the frontal passage dispersing concentrations along with the orientation of the front.

Saturday may have left over rain in the morning hours but slowly clearing up in the afternoon with winds from the NW. Sunday continues where Saturday leaves off with NW winds and sunny skies with temperatures in the 70s thanks to a High-pressure setting up to our south.

EXTENDED FORECAST:

The High-pressure moves off to our north, shifting winds to more easterly but temperatures remain the same. Overall air quality looks to be Good to start off next week.

Next Forecast Update: Monday, May 22nd, 2023

05/15/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: Monday May 15th, 2023, through Monday May 22nd, 2023

OZONE: Ozone concentrations will range from Good to Moderate throughout the forecast period.

PM-2.5: PM-2.5 concentrations are expected to range from Good to low-Moderate throughout the forecast period.

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

The beautiful Spring weather from the weekend continues into this week with ample sunshine and surface temperatures in the upper-60s and 70s throughout the Great Lakes State. This is attributed to regional High-pressure clearing the way for clear skies and temperatures near seasonal norms. Along with sunny skies and warm temperatures, winds should be relatively light from the WNW. This weather pattern sticks around through Wednesday until a Low-pressure system drifts into the area from the north on Thursday. This will shift winds to more southerly flow and cloudier conditions for the end of the week. Precipitation does not look to start until early Friday morning and will be on and off throughout the day on Friday.

 The rain may hang around to start off the weekend with temperatures in the 60s and possibly 70s as we approach Sunday. Winds will shift back for the weekend and into next week due to a High-pressure system setting up just to our west.

For air quality, with most of the week being under northerly flow, the airmass will be relatively clean with little pollutants. When winds shift to more southerly flow later this week, concentrations may uptick but the rain on Friday will help clean out any buildup. Concentrations should remain low with winds shifting back to northerly for the weekend. Cooler temperatures will help keep Ozone production at bay although we will have ample sunlight to start off the week. There might be some Moderate concentrations on Tuesday, but only should hang around the mid-Moderate range. Light winds in the mornings may allow for PM-2.5 concentrations to increase but afternoon increase in winds will help blow those concentrations out of the area.

EXTENDED FORECAST:

Monday will continue what Sunday provides for us with winds shifting to more southerly to start off next week. Overall air quality should remain Good.

Next Forecast update: Monday, May 22, 2023

05/08/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: Monday, May 8, 2023, through Monday, May 15, 2023

Ozone: 8-hour average Ozone concentrations will range between Good and Moderate through the forecast period.

PM-2.5: 24-hour average Fine Particulate will range from Good to low-Moderate.

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

Low pressure tracking along a west to east frontal boundary positioned south of the state Monday could triggered precipitation in the southern areas; otherwise, high pressure dropping in from the north provides dry conditions. High pressure dominates through mid-week with temperatures moderating Tuesday into Thursday. The next chance for precipitation arrives Friday as the high departs east and southeast/southerly winds increase moisture over the region.

As for air quality, clouds and precipitation chances keep pollution levels Good Monday. The only exception would be for of a monitor or two in the southeast to reach low-end Moderate for fine particulate. Clouds will be decreasing west to east Tuesday as surface temperatures increase a few degrees. Plentiful sunshine generally makes ozone more conducive; however, cooler upper-level temperatures and northerly winds should keep both ozone and fine particulate generally Good. As the high slides overhead, wind speeds decrease Wednesday and by Thursday the surface flow turns more south/southeasterly. Skies will be sunny and surface temperatures increase both days, but what likely hampers ozone development are cooler upper-level temperatures. While the likelihood of Moderate ozone and fine particulate spreads Wednesday into Thursday, readings higher than Moderate are not anticipated.

EXTENDED FORECAST:

Extended models show a weather system in the region keeping clouds and precipitation chances for the weekend into early next week. Ozone levels should range mostly Good while fine particulate may be Good to low Moderate.

Next Forecast update: Monday, May 15, 2023

5/01/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: Monday, May 1, 2023, through Monday, May 8, 2023

OZONE: 8-hour average ozone concentrations are expected to be mostly Good with the possibility for scattered Low Moderate during that latter half of the forecast period. 

PM-2.5: 24-hour average Fine Particulate concentrations are also expected to be mostly Good to Low Moderate throughout the forecast period.

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

As we enter the month of May, the cool, damp weather of the past few days is expected to persist into mid-week under a slow moving low-pressure system.  By Wednesday, that cold, low-pressure system should be nudged out by an approaching high-pressure ridge.  That will chase the dampness away under sunny skies, but temperatures will likely remain a bit cooler than normal for this time of year.

In terms of Air Quality, ozone should not be a problem, even under the clear skies for the latter half of the forecast period.  Thursday will have mostly calm conditions which could allow some Low Moderate ozone creep in the urban areas prone to stagnation.  Friday through the weekend is showing easterly winds which typically do not cause ozone issues although some areas east of Detroit could show some Low Moderate conditions.  Cooler temperatures will help keep concentrations from creeping up, too high.

Fine particulate concentrations will likely follow the same pattern with mostly Good concentrations with the possibility of Low Moderate in the areas prone to urban stagnation during the latter half of the week.

EXTENDED FORECAST:

Air Quality should be mostly Good begin the next work week.

NEXT FORECAST UPDATE: Monday, May 8, 2023

04/24/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: Monday, May 1, 2023, through Monday, May 8, 2023

OZONE: 8-hour average ozone concentrations are expected to be mostly Good with the possibility for scattered Low Moderate during that latter half of the forecast period. 

PM-2.5: 24-hour average Fine Particulate concentrations are also expected to be mostly Good to Low Moderate throughout the forecast period.

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

As we enter the month of May, the cool, damp weather of the past few days is expected to persist into mid-week under a slow moving low-pressure system.  By Wednesday, that cold, low-pressure system should be nudged out by an approaching high-pressure ridge.  That will chase the dampness away under sunny skies, but temperatures will likely remain a bit cooler than normal for this time of year.

In terms of Air Quality, ozone should not be a problem, even under the clear skies for the latter half of the forecast period.  Thursday will have mostly calm conditions which could allow some Low Moderate ozone creep in the urban areas prone to stagnation.  Friday through the weekend is showing easterly winds which typically do not cause ozone issues although some areas east of Detroit could show some Low Moderate conditions.  Cooler temperatures will help keep concentrations from creeping up, too high.

Fine particulate concentrations will likely follow the same pattern with mostly Goodconcentrations with the possibility of Low Moderate in the areas prone to urban stagnation during the latter half of the week.

EXTENDED FORECAST:

Air Quality should be mostly Good begin the next work week.

NEXT FORECAST UPDATE: Monday, May 8, 2023

04/17/2023 Forecast Update

FORECAST SUMMARY: Monday, April 17, 2023, through Monday, April 24, 202323

OZONE: 8-hour average Ozone concentrations are expected to be mostly Good through the forecast period.

PM-2.5: 24-hour average Fine Particulate will range primarily Good with only small chances for Moderate.

FORECAST DISCUSSION:

The weather conditions from last week caused increases in both Ozone and Fine Particulate, warranting our first Action Day this season for ozone along the western lakeshore and in the southeast on Friday. USG ozone concentrations were seen at two southwest lakeshore monitors, and one southeast location. Clouds moved in early enough Saturday to keep western and central areas Moderate for ozone, however, further east sunshine prevailed longer, and a handful of monitors reached low-end USG. Fine particulate also increased with daily averages in the 20’s at several locations. The highest concentrations were Friday and Saturday in the southeast and one monitor reach just over the USG threshold on Saturday. The airmass over the region was a “dirty” airmass and increases in pollution were experienced in neighboring states as well. Smoke also prevailed over the region; however, more research would be needed to determine if smoke played a role in increased pollution levels.

The new week began with a cold front Sunday which ended the summer-like conditions, ushering in colder than normal temperatures and snow showers. Low pressure just north of the region dominates Monday and Tuesday with cool northerly winds and scattered snow showers. High pressure settles in briefly Wednesday before the next weather system brings a warm front north Thursday and then an associated cold front Friday. A quick temperature warmup Thursday allows precipitation to fall as rain, but another cool down is expected for the end of the week.

Good pollution levels should prevail Monday and Tuesday thanks to stronger winds with a northerly component. Weak high pressure sliding south of the state Wednesday could allow for increases in fine particulate to the low Moderate range, but ozone should remain Good. Warmer conditions move in Thursday, along with stronger winds and chances for precipitation. Fine particulate may remain low Moderate; however, ozone should average mostly Good. Precipitation may linger into Friday as the system tracks east. Fine particulate may remain Moderate in the southeast; otherwise, pollution levels will be Good.

EXTENDED FORECAST:

Extended models show high pressure settling in from the north during the second half of the weekend. Conditions will dry out as the weekend progresses, and temperatures will fall to below seasonable levels. Air quality readings are expected to be mostly Good during the weekend into early next week.

NEXT FORECAST UPDATE: Monday, April 24, 2023