Air quality continues to deteriorate

Department of Ecology Press Release - November 17, 2005

05-280

Air quality continues to deteriorate

OLYMPIA - Air quality continues to decline throughout the state, increasing the need for people to voluntarily refrain from outdoor burning and unnecessary use of wood stoves and fireplaces. Strong inversions are expected to form over the next few nights in most areas of the state, further increasing the levels of air pollution.

The National Weather Service has extended the Air Stagnation Advisory for Western Washington except along the central and north Washington coast and in the Portland/Vancouver area, through 6 p.m. Saturday. Air Stagnation Advisories will continue for the rest of the state until 4 p.m. Sunday.

Ecology meteorologists are seeing pollution levels steadying in some areas, which is partly attributable to residents voluntarily decreasing their burning. Ecology is urging people to avoid burning and other activities that generate smoke and air pollution. Smoke and other pollutants are likely to accumulate, especially in low-lying areas where a temperature inversion traps a layer of cold air near the ground. Smoke and air pollution can aggravate asthma and other medical conditions, Ecology officials said. Fine particles released by smoke from outdoor burning, wood stoves and fireplaces are especially harmful, as they can be inhaled deeply into lungs and damage delicate tissues. While the air-quality advisory is in effect, young children, the elderly and people with respiratory ailments should limit their outdoor activities until the air clears.

Residents of populated regions throughout the state should monitor local news media for information about voluntary or mandatory wood stove restrictions. Restrictions are currently in place in Yakima County and on all Indian Reservations in the state. If current conditions persist, local authorities in other areas may also impose restrictions.

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Contact: Glenn Kuper, Public Information Manager, 360-791-3177