There's good news and bad news about the weather.
First, the good news: From today until at least Monday, it's going to be sunny, dry and reasonably warm, the National Weather Service says.
Highs are forecast to be in the mid-50s; lows likely will be near freezing. No rain is forecast. Showers might return Tuesday night.
Now the bad news: We've got another burn ban.
Bans were issued Friday for Pierce and Thurston counties because of the dry, stagnant air lingering over the region. The Stage 1 ban is in effect until further notice.
"High pressure is building east of the Cascade Mountains through the weekend, " according to the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency. "Dry, stagnant air is expected in Pierce County, resulting in rising air pollution, especially in communities where residential wood burning is common."
In some areas, pollution levels could reach the category of "unhealthy for sensitive groups, " the agency said.
Under a Stage 1 burn ban:
*No burning is allowed in fireplaces or uncertified woodstoves. The only exception is if a woodstove is a home's only adequate source of heat.
*Outdoor fires, including recreational fires, are prohibited. The use of fire pits and chimineas is not allowed. The agency reminded residents to take storm debris to one of the disposal options offered by Pierce County and the City of Tacoma.
*The use of natural gas, propane, pellet and EPA-certified woodstoves or inserts is OK.
Residents caught violating the burn ban could face a $1,000 fine.
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Stacey Mulick: stacey.mulick@thenewstribune.com
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