Daily COVID-19 cases in over one-third of Washington’s counties have reached a “tipping point” before the Thanksgiving holiday, according to Harvard University data.
Researchers are mapping coronavirus risk by state and county by the seven-day average of new cases per 100,000 people. As of Thursday, at least 15 of Washington’s 39 counties are in the “red” zone, with 25 or more cases per 100,000 people.
Harvard Global Health Institute released a map that uses four colors to show the risk level in different counties: green, yellow, orange and red. Red means that it’s a “tipping point” and that stay-at-home orders are “necessary.” Coronavirus cases have surged in all 50 states. Washington Gov. Jay Inslee announced new restrictions for the state on Sunday that went into effect Wednesday, saying that only outdoor dining will be allowed, The News Tribune reported. The restrictions apply to breweries, restaurants, taverns and wineries and will end on Dec. 14.