Burn Bans Issued Amid Red Flag Warning In Western Washington

SEATTLE — Multiple jurisdictions across Western Washington have issued outdoor burn bans until further notice as a red flag warning remains in place with heat, smoke and gusts in the forecast. The National Weather Service issued the warning Friday and it will remain in place through at least Saturday night.

Related: Hazy Skies, Red Flag Warning & Air Quality Impacts: WA Smoke Forecast

In King County, a "Stage 2" burn ban took effect Friday across all cities and regions, prohibiting all outdoor fires, including campfires, fire pits, cooking fires and ceremonial fires until further notice. Stage 2 bans allow for the use of portable outdoor devices, including barbeques and grills, provided they are fueled by charcoal, propane or natural gas.

“This ban will be in place until further notice due to the hot, dry weather conditions we’re experiencing,” said Kirkland Fire Marshal Mark Jung. “The fire marshals are carefully monitoring the fuel moisture content and energy release component of wildland fuels in the area. When these measures return to more typical values, the ban will be lifted.”

Residents found in violation of the burn ban can be subject to misdemeanor charges.

In Pierce County, recreational and cooking fires are prohibited until the red flag warning expires. The ban applies to all outdoor fires, including backyard fire pits and campfires. Barbecues and grills fueled by propane and natural gas are allowed, but charcoal-fueled devices are included in the ban.

According to the National Weather Service, high fire danger will persist through at least Saturday, with relative humidity dropping as low as 20 percent in some areas and winds forecast between 10 and 15 mph. Puget Sound is also contending with wildfire smoke from fires burning elsewhere in the county, which could degrade air quality further Saturday.