OLYMPIA - Gov. Chris Gregoire has issued an emergency burn ban that now includes all counties in Washington state.
No outdoor burning is allowed in the state through midnight, Oct. 15.
"Washington state is experiencing a weather pattern like one we've rarely seen before," Gregoire said. "The long, warm and dry spell has elevated fire danger across our state. Given that we don't expect a significant amount of rainfall for quite some time, it makes sense to extend this proclamation and expand the burn ban. Extraordinary dry conditions across our state require that all Washingtonians exercise the utmost caution and allow fire crews to focus on the challenges at hand."
Wildfires continue to burn across the state and multiple brush fires flared up on Saturday.
The burn ban prohibits all outdoor burning, including but not limited to:
- Campfires
- Bonfires
- Residential yard debris clean-up, trash disposal, land clearing, weed abatement and agricultural burning activity
- Ignition of fireworks.
Liquid fueled or gas-fueled stoves are permitted provided that use is conducted over a non-flammable surface and is at least five feet from flammable vegetation. Charcoal grills are permitted at private residences under the same conditions.
KING 5's Susan Wyatt contributed to this report.
