PHOENIX (AP) - The Latest on a high pollution warning and no-burn order issued for the Phoenix area (all times local):
1:45 p.m.
A storm and accompanying winds that swept air pollution from Maricopa County has led to the cancellation of a ban on burning wood in fireplaces.
Bob Huhn from the county air quality department said Sunday afternoon that changing forecasts led state regulators to rescind their high pollution advisory for metro Phoenix. The county bans firewood burning when the state issues high pollution warnings.
The fireplace burning ban was called Friday and was to be in force for the entire weekend. But Huhn says the storm that swept into the area early Sunday cleaned out pollution and smoke from New Year’s Eve fireworks and state officials revisited their forecasts.
Violating the no burning ban can lead to fins of $150.
10:50 a.m.
For the second straight day, people in metro Phoenix are barred from using wood-burning fireplaces or starting bonfires.
The no-burn restrictions for New Year’s Day were ordered by environmental regulators because pollution levels are expected to exceed federal health standards.
The restrictions include bans on wood in fireplaces and outdoor fire pits. Gas and electric heaters are allowed.
Authorities say fireworks use during the holiday is legal, but they urged people to show moderation because ground-level smoke from fireworks worsens the air quality.
Violators of the rules risk being ticketed and inspectors will respond to complaints about wood burning.
First-time violators will receive a warning, but repeat offenders can face fines of up to $250 per violation.
Smoke and soot from wood-burning pose risks to people with respiratory ailments.
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