Due to stagnant weather conditions and rising air pollution, the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency is issuing a Stage 2 burn ban for Snohomish County, effective Thursday, Jan. 7, at 1 p.m.

Under a Stage 2 burn ban, All wood burning is prohibited, including pellet stoves. Outdoor burning is also prohibited. This ban is in effect until further notice.

The purpose of a burn ban is to reduce the amount of pollution that is creating unhealthy air. Air quality has worsened in Snohomish County, and the agency expects these conditions will continue through Friday, and possibly well into the weekend. Pollution levels in Snohomish County are already “unhealthy for sensitive groups.”

A broad high pressure weather pattern will result in calm and cold conditions, with evening and morning inversions, which can trap pollution near the ground. This dry and calm weather pattern may extend into early next week.

The Washington State Department of Health recommends that people who are sensitive to air pollution limit their time spent outdoors, especially when exercising. Air pollution can trigger asthma attacks, cause difficulty breathing, and make lung and heart problems worse.

Visit www.pscleanair.org/burnban to view the current burn ban status, download our mobile app, and other burn ban alert options for you area.