The KIRO Newsradio newsdesk brings you their top stories on the afternoon of Tuesday, July 26.

The AM Newsdesk Minutes: Mariners snap losing streak, Tacoma police investigate gang shooting

King County’s gun buyback program becomes permanent

The King County Council on Tuesday approved a proposal to create a permanent voluntary safe firearm and ammunition return program within the King County Sheriff’s Office.

The program will enable any person to take an unwanted firearm, or ammunition, to any precinct office or storefront operated by the King County Sheriff’s office, including in the 10 contract cities where it provides police services.

SDOT plans short-term closures of bridges to prevent steel expansion from heat

The heat will mean some short closures of Seattle’s University, Fremont, and Ballard bridges this week.

High heat can also cause steel to expand, which can affect the bridges’ ability to raise and lower for boat traffic.

When SDOT sprays down the bridges, they close each bridge for a few minutes multiple times throughout the day. To ensure the water is safe for the environment, they also add a small amount of vitamin C to neutralize the chlorine in the water.

Servais pencils Julio Rodriguez into Tuesday’s lineup

Just in from the Seattle Mariners Clubhouse: Manager Scott Servais says Julio Rodriguez should return from injury tonight.

J-Rod missed three games after the All-Star Break due to a sore wrist.
The Mariners look to make it back-to-back wins tonight against the Texas Rangers.

Oregon declares state of emergency over heat

The Governor of Oregon is declaring a state of emergency because of excessive heat.

Governor Kate Brown’s emergency declaration covers 25 counties, through July 31st… and it should help the state get help to residents more quickly, as they face soaring temperatures.

The greater Portland area is forecast to hit the triple-digits, Tuesday.

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