Last night was incredibly clear. Many in my area spent the late hours watching the stunning Arora Borealis doing its mystical dance across the sky.

Today was different. The wind shifted and brought with it a monstrous cloud from the northwest. But we weren’t greeted with spring rains, once common this time of year.

A thick smoke enveloped the region, turning daylight into a brownish grey. It cooled the air, blocking out much of the sun. It irritated throats and lungs.

It should be temporary, as it usually is. But these days are becoming more common in the summer.

Wildfire season is here.