A plume of smoke from wild fires in northern Canada has spread over the upper midwest, and is reaching down to ground level behind a cold front moving across Iowa. This has resulted in moderate visibility restrictions and a reduction in air quality across much of northwestern Iowa. As of 9pm the smoke plume reached as far south as Waterloo to Des Moines and over towards Omaha/Council Bluffs and it is continuing to move south. Anyone with breathing difficulty or other health issues, as well as the very young and elderly, may want to avoid traveling outdoors if possible until the smoke clears out.

 

This is a view from Cumming, IA looking east towards Norwalk. You would normally be able to see the Norwalk watertower enough to read it, but this evening it is barely visible. Visibilities are 2.5 miles currently at Des Moines Airport. Where the smoke is thicker in northern Iowa visibilities are under 2 miles at Mason City. The smoke should begin to lift and push out of the area by Tuesday.