To prevent wildfires amidst a summer heat wave, a burn ban in unincorporated King County went into effect on July 14<\/a>. All outdoor burning is restricted save for bonfires in designated fire pits on campgrounds or on private property.<\/p>\n
Summer wildfires – and the accompanying apocalyptic smokey hazes that shroud the region – are becoming routine in Washington state, and are affecting local air quality<\/a>. Last year, there were roughly 10 wildfires across the state, costing the state $140 million to subdue<\/a>. According to the state Department of Natural Resources, 75 percent of wildfires in Washington are caused by human behavior.<\/p>\n