The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency has downgraded its stage 2 burn ban for Snohomish County to Stage 1.
The downgrade applies to Darrington as well, which this year has been hit with higher-level burn bans due to its air quality being worse than that in the rest of the county.
Light rain and wind Friday were expected to improve the air quality, but stagnant air was forecast through Saturday night, with a corresponding risk of pollution from wood burning stoves.
The burn ban remains in effect until further notice. Burn ban violations are subject to a $1,000 penalty.
Under a stage 1 burn ban, use of fireplaces and uncertified wood stoves is prohibited until air quality improves. No outdoor fires are allowed.
Natural gas and propane stoves are permitted, as are homes with a previously approved designation that they have no other adequate source of heat.
It is recommended that people who are sensitive to air pollution limit time spent outdoors, especially when exercising.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
