Tri-Cities air stagnation advisory extended

An air stagnation advisory for the Tri-Cities has been extended by the National Weather Service until at least 10 a.m. Thursday.

It had been set to expire Monday, but a strong temperature inversion with light winds continues to trap pollution near the ground.

Air quality Monday in the Tri-Cities was rated as “good” by the Benton Clean Air Agency until evening, when it dropped into the “moderate” range.

However, state air quality agencies recommend the use of fireplaces or stoves burning wood be as limited as possible.

Temperatures this week should be a little warmer, but remain unseasonably cold.

Highs are expected to climb from the upper 20s recorded recently into the 30s Tuesday through Sunday. Lows should be in the upper 20s all week in the Tri-Cities.

A 30 percent chance of rain or freezing rain is expected Tuesday , increasing to a 40 percent chance Tuesday night.

This story was originally published January 4, 2016 at 2:31 PM with the headline "Tri-Cities air stagnation advisory extended."