By KATHY HAGEMAN

Reflector-Chronicle

Most people know that helium is the element that makes giant balloons in parades and small balloons at parties soar into the air.

But what most people don’t know is that helium is crucial for use in MRI machines, welding, some manufacturing products and numerous other uses. It’s also currently in short supply.

Helium is the second most abundant element in the universe. But on Earth helium is relatively hard to obtain. That’s because it’s trapped underground with natural gas.

Helium is a byproduct of natural gas recovery which is recovered through a distillation process and vended separately. It is created by the radioactive decay of heavy elements within the earth’s crust, according to Wikiansw-ers.com.

Currently, there is a worldwide shortage of the element, which is driving up prices making many party stores feel a little deflated.

Locally, Celebrations Party Store in Abilene can still obtain helium, “although it’s a little hard to get,” said store owner Jaime Durham.

Another Abilene business, the Flower Box, is still able to obtain helium through Holt Motor Co., also of Abilene. However, Flower Box co-owner Donna Berger said the business’ main focus is flowers and balloons are just an additional service.

West’s Country Mart used to offer helium filled balloons, but no longer does so.

Interestingly, Kansas is the nation’s leader in helium production, according to the Emporia State University website “Natural Resources of Kansas” by Anthony Farrar.

Because of the helium shortage some scientists believe the Earth will be virtually helium-free by the end of the 21st Century.