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Department of Ecology News Release - Jan. 13, 2004
04-014
OLYMPIA - Due to improved air circulation, the state Department of Ecology (Ecology) has lifted the air quality advisory it issued for Eastern Washington on Sunday.
The National Weather Service issued an air advisory Sunday morning for all of Eastern Washington because stagnant air conditions were trapping smoke particles in low-lying areas. Although weather conditions have improved, Ecology officials say stagnant air is an ever-present danger during wintertime.
Historically, stagnant air occurs in the Northwest from about mid-November to mid-March when cold high-pressure ridges stall over the area, trapping a layer of cold air beneath a layer of warm air. This is known as a "blocking" weather pattern.
"We'll continue to monitor the situation throughout the season," said Ecology meteorologist Dick Stender. "Meanwhile, people should do all they can to get ready for the next stagnant air episode. That means replacing older wood stoves with certified stoves or cleaner fuels, getting cars tuned and keeping tires inflated."
To find out whether it's okay to use your wood stove or fireplace, call your local clean-air agency. A good rule is that if it is windy or rainy outside, it's probably okay to burn. If the air is very foggy or still, air quality may be poor and burning is not a good idea.
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Contact: Leslie Thorpe, Public Information Manager, 360-407-6848
Copyright © Washington State Department of Ecology. See http://www.ecy.wa.gov/copyright.html.
