The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency is lifting the air quality burn ban in King County, effective at 1 p.m. today, Wednesday, Jan. 16. A Stage 1 burn ban remains in effect for Pierce and Snohomish counties until further notice.

“We’re lifting the ban in King County because air pollution levels there have improved,” said Dr. Phil Swartzendruber, agency forecaster. “Based on historic patterns, it’s unlikely they’ll reach trigger levels in the next few days.”

Dr. Swartzendruber added, “Pollution levels in Pierce and Snohomish counties remain moderate, and the forecast suggests they would worsen in the next few days without a burn ban. The Stage 1 burn ban needs to remain in place for these counties.

“Looking ahead, calm, cold, and clear weather conditions will likely continue through the weekend, so ongoing cooperation with the burn ban will help keep our air healthy,” he said. “We encourage everyone who doesn’t rely on wood heat to use instead their home’s cleaner source of heat until weather conditions change.”

The Clean Air Agency will continue to closely monitor the air quality and weather situation.