Novosibirsk engulfed in smoke from Tomsk fires

Smoke plumes from forest fires in the Tomsk region have covered Novosibirsk, the editorial board of NGS reported citing the West Siberian Hydrometeorological Service.

«The wind is coming from the northeast, so the smoke is coming from there. There is no reported deterioration in visibility at stations, but visually the haze is still visible,» explained Natalia Kichanova, head of the weather forecasting department at the West Siberian Hydrometeorological Service. «We are expecting rain, which should refresh the air.»

Precipitation is expected to settle the particles in the air as soon as tomorrow, 22 July. The wind direction should also change to northerly, stopping the influx of smoke.

Officially, weather stations have not recorded air pollution as they do not detect such suspended particles. However, the IQAir service does warn of danger to people. According to its data, such air is harmful to humans.

Earlier, we asked experts why deforestation and the disappearance of permafrost are more frightening for Siberians than El Niño and what Novosibirsk residents should prepare for in the coming years.