The National Air Quality Forecast Capability (NAQFC) / National Weather Service (NWS) have been providing operational air quality forecast guidance since 2004. We improve the basis of air quality alerts and provide air quality information to people at risk to further NWS mission of protecting life and property and the enhancement of the national economy. Our current operational predictions include ozone, fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and smoke nationwide and dust over the continental US. Our program is a strategic partnership between NOAA, the EPA and state and local air quality forecasters to make full use of their respective capabilities and authorities in developing and advancing a NAQFC for the Nation an enhance research, application, and interpretation efforts by utilizing the unique meteorological and air quality modeling expertise of each other.  

Operational Predictions of Air Quality for the United States

NWS Air Quality Forecast Guidance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)