Air stagnation advisory issued |
| January 17, 2013 |
|
For many in Boundary County wheezing and
coughing from a nasty flu bug making the rounds,
the next several days may get even worse, as a
mass of stagnant air has settled over the
region. The National Weather Service, Spokane, issued an air stagnation advisory this morning that will remain in effect until at least 4 p.m. next Tuesday, January 22. According to the advisory, a ridge of high pressure will continue over the region through early next week, resulting in a strong low-level temperature inversion across most of the Inland Northwest, which will lead to stagnant air and increased pollution, with the potential to reach dangerous levels. The National Weather Service recommends that any unnecessary burning be curtailed through this period, even though thousands have no choice but to burn firewood to stay warm. The impact will be greatest on those suffering respiratory illnesses or conditions, who are advised to contact their doctors for advice on coping with the expected increase in air pollution. |