NOAA Upgrades Key Air Quality Prediction Model

NOAA’s Air Resources Laboratory (ARL) has delivered significant updates to the Air Quality Model that NOAA’s National Weather Service uses to deliver air quality forecast guidance. NOAA’s partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issues daily air quality forecast guidance as part of a National Air Quality Forecasting Capability. These forecasts include information such as the levels of ozone (O₃), smoke, dust and fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) in the air we breathe.

As of July 20, 2021 there is an improved time range of air quality forecasts; NOAA’s air quality forecast guidance now extends from 48 hours out to 72 hours. These forecasts offer essential information that limits the public’s exposure to poor air quality and its harmful health effects. Extending the forecast capability to 72 hours assists local forecasters with planning for weekend and multiday event air quality alerts.

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