Burn ban extended in Eastern Washington counties

The Department of Ecology extended burn bans in seven Eastern Washington counties Monday, saying stagnant air could cause unhealthy levels of pollution.

A stage one burn ban will be in effect through 10 a.m. Thursday in Kittitas, Chelan, Douglas, Okanogan, Ferry, Stevens and Pend Oreille counties, the department said in a news release. During a stage one ban, all outdoor burning is prohibited, and use of uncertified wood stoves are banned unless they are a home’s only adequate source of heat.

The ban went into effect Dec. 29 and was scheduled to end Monday morning. Burn bans in Asotin and Walla Walla counties were lifted Monday morning because air conditions had improved, the department said.

People can report suspected illegal burning or smoke by calling (866) 211-6284. An up-to-date list of burn bans is posted at waburnbans.net