A Stage 1 burn ban was initiated for Pierce and Snohomish counties this week, due to stagnant weather conditions and rising air pollution levels, according to the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency. This ban was in effect until further notice.

A ridge of high pressure off the Pacific Coast continues to dominate the region. Poor ventilation and cold evening temperatures will continue. It was anticipated the stagnation could continue through early this week. Clean Air Agency forecasters are actively monitoring the situation to determine if the burn ban needs to be elevated to a Stage 2 ban or expanded to include King and/or Kitsap counties.

During a Stage 1 burn ban no burning is allowed in fireplaces or uncertified wood stoves. Residents should rely instead on a home’s other, cleaner source of heat (like a furnace or electric baseboard heaters) for a few days until air quality improves, the public health risk diminishes and the ban is cancelled. The only exception is if a wood stove is a home’s only adequate source of heat.

No outdoor fires are allowed. This includes recreational fires like bonfires, campfires and the use of fire pits and chimineas.

Burn ban violations are subject to a $1,000 penalty.