Northern Lights May Be Visible in Parts of the US Due to Solar Storms
The sun recently emitted a significant burst of energy known as a coronal mass ejection, which is now heading toward Earth. This event has led space weather forecasters to issue a strong geomagnetic storm watch.
The solar storm is expected to reach Earth between Thursday evening and Friday morning. The intensity and southern reach of the auroras will depend on the exact timing and interaction of the solar burst with our planet.
“If the timing is right, it’s possible auroras will quite likely spin up overnight,” said Shawn Dahl, a space weather forecaster with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation but do not expect significant disruptions to radio or communication systems, according to Dahl.
Where Auroras Could Be Seen
- Alaska
- Washington
- Oregon
- Idaho
- Montana
- Wyoming
- North Dakota
- South Dakota
- Nebraska
- Minnesota
- Iowa
- Michigan
- Wisconsin
- New York
- Vermont
- New Hampshire
- Maine
- Northern parts of Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts
Visibility will be better in darker, rural locations. However, the moon's brightness, which is currently close to Earth, may reduce the visibility of the auroras.
Northern lights might also be visible Friday night, depending on ongoing solar activity.
Summary
The incoming solar storm may brighten northern US skies with auroras, especially in rural areas, though moonlight could hinder visibility.