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Department of Ecology Press Release - November 15, 2005
05-278
OLYMPIA - Due to air stagnation settling over the Pacific Northwest, the state Department of Ecology is asking people to voluntarily refrain from outdoor burning and unnecessary use of wood stoves and fireplaces.
A high-pressure pattern is settling over the Northwest with a temperature inversion that can trap smoke and other pollution near the ground. As a result, the National Weather Service (NWS) today issued an air stagnation advisory for the Lower Columbia Basin and the Yakima and Kittitas valleys. The NWS anticipates expanding the air stagnation advisory tomorrow to include Western Washington.
The state has entered the time of year when air stagnation typically begins to occur. Residents should prepare for possible episodes of poor air quality between now and the end of February.
"We're asking people to avoid burning and other activities that create smoke and air pollution if they can," said Ecology meteorologist Dick Stender. "Right now and for the next several days, there just isn't anywhere for pollutants to go."
Of particular concern are fine particles released by smoke from outdoor burning, wood stoves and fireplaces. This smoke is likely to accumulate, especially in low-lying areas where a temperature inversion has trapped a layer of cold air near the ground.
Residents of populated regions throughout the state should monitor local news media for information about voluntary or mandatory woodstove restrictions. If current conditions persist, local authorities may impose restrictions in some areas.
Ecology officials said smoke and air pollution can aggravate asthma and other medical conditions. While the air-quality advisory is in effect, young children, the elderly and people with respiratory ailments should consider limiting their outdoor activities until the air clears.
Ecology also recommends that people limit their vehicle trips, combine errands or use public transportation. If burning wood is the only source of heat, people should burn hot fires using dry wood to lessen smoke emissions.
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Contact: Glenn Kuper, Public Information Manager, 360-407-6848
Copyright © Washington State Department of Ecology. See http://www.ecy.wa.gov/copyright.html.
