News : Despite worldwide helium shortage, balloons still available at Nature's Corner

For now, Vinton area residents who are celebrating graduations, birthdays and other special occasions can go to Nature's Corner to buy helium-filled balloons.

But already, the worldwide shortage of helium is affecting many people, including those who sell those balloons.

A sign as the Super Dollar store advises customers that helium balloons are not available. Several other stores in Iowa are already telling customers that helium balloons are not available.

At Nature's Corner, however, Cindy Elwick says she has a provider who assures her that for now at least, helium will be available. But, she said, that provider has told her that there will be helium supply issues for the next three to five years.

Media all over the world, from Iowa to Europe, are reporting on the shortage. The problem is that helium is a by-product of natural gas drilling. Because there is a natural gas surplus, there is no natural gas production, which has drastically reduced the availability of helium. In some markets, helium is reserved for medical and other "essential" purpose.

But for now, at least, Vinton customers can still use it to celebrate their special occasions