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Forecast Graphics Descriptions
Supported by the Northwest Modeling Consortium

B-V Ventilation Index

DEFINITION:

Value created from the stability in the planetary boundary layer using the Brunt-Vaisala Frequency and the transport wind speed (m/s). It is used as a tool for air quality forecasters to determine the potential of the atmosphere to disperse contaminants such as smoke or smog.

Below is a table to describe the values of the B-V Ventilation Index. There are many different interpretations of this value as the description (i.e. GOOD, POOR) is very subjective.

B-V Ventilation Index
Classification
Below 100 Very poor
100-200 Poor
200-400 Limited
400-800 Good
800+ Excellent