Iowans have witnessed hazy, smoky skies as of late due to wildfires in Canada. Kurt Kotenberg, meteorologist with the National Weather Service, explains the recent smoky skies over Iowa are due to upper level winds in the jet stream transporting smoke from Canada to the upper Midwest. As of Tuesday morning there were 182 fires. He added the air quality in Vancouver at this time is being compared to that in Beijing, China. Kotenberg says it is likely Iowans will see the smoky skies again early next week.

He advises those with sensitivities to air quality and respiratory issues stay inside when possible and rest, especially in Eastern Iowa. For more information listen to the full interview with Kotenberg during today’s Washington Page.