Australian air quality forecasting system

Notice: Due to technical issues the forecasts are not available. Forecasting is expected to resume shortly.

The Australian Air Quality Forecasting System (AAQFS) is a state of the art modelling system which forecasts the following day's air quality. Meteorological and emissions information is entered into the model which aims to accurately forecast air pollution. The result is a hour-by-hour forecast of air quality.

The AAQFS is currently used in Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide.

This website contains the forecasts from the AAQFS for:

• Melbourne/Geelong metropolitan region
• Victoria.

Also check the user guide.

The AAQFS uses advanced calculation on supercomputers to forecast air quality. EPA uses information provided by AAQFS to assist with forecasting tomorrow's air quality. EPA's forecasting method uses historical weather and air quality data, and watches for particular weather conditions known to be associated with poor air quality. Statistical forecast techniques are used in this method.

What is the system used for?

Some people are affected on days of high pollution which can have an impact on their health. By being able to accurately forecast tomorrow's air quality, the community can be alerted on days where high air pollution is expected allowing people to take steps to avoid it.

The information is also important for the community as they can take steps to help reduce the air pollution if poor air quality is forecast, such as avoiding car use and not using wood heaters.

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Who developed the system?

The AAQFS was developed by the Bureau of Meteorology, CSIRO and EPA.

The Bureau of Meteorology supports the AAQFS forecasts by daily running the modelling system underpinning the forecasts on the joint Bureau-CSIRO supercomputer facility, and through liaison between the Victorian Regional Office and EPA.

The project was sponsored by the Australian Government Department of Environment and Heritage under the Air Pollution in Major Cities Program. It is a 'Clear the Air' project of Natural Heritage Trust.

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