Air quality around the South Sound improved Saturday, but burn bans remain in effect in some areas.
The air quality became a concern earlier in the week as smoke from fires east of the Cascades blew over into Western Washington.
Pierce County remained at a moderate level of health concern Saturday, according to the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency’s website, but is expected to rise to “good” quality Sunday, meaning little or no health risks.
The Olympic Region Clean Air Agency had no updated information on air quality in Thurston, Mason or Grays Harbor counties available Saturday.
Representatives of the agency said Friday that air pollution from the Eastern Washington fires could become an issue again next week if easterly winds return and the fires are not under control.
Burn bans were still in effect for Thurston, Mason and Grays Harbor counties. The ban was expected to continue through the end of the month.
Gov. Chris Gregoire made an emergency proclamation Friday banning all outdoor and agricultural areas for counties east of the Cascades.
ckrotzer@theolympian.com
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