Burn bans ordered as stagnant air lingers

OLYMPIA -- Several Western Washington counties issues Stage 1 and 2 burn bans as stagnant weather conditions and rising air pollution worsened as a stretch of clear, cold days continues.

Pierce County, Thurtson County, Snohomish County and several Indian Reservations issued burn bans on Sunday and Monday. The burn bans were in effect until further notice.

Pierce and Snohomish Counties were under Stage 2 burn bans, meaning the use of fireplaces and wood stoves was prohibited until air quality improved.

During a Stage 2 burn ban:


    In Thurston County, a Stage 1 burn ban prohibits all outdoor burning, and no smoke is allowed from indoor burning beyond a 20-minute start-up period.

    These Indian Reservations currently have a burn ban in place:


      The Washington State Department of Health recommends that people who are sensitive to air pollution limit time spent outdoors, especially when exercising. Air pollution can trigger asthma attacks, cause difficulty breathing, and make lung and heart problems worse.