Northern Lights May Appear in Parts of the US, Including Iowa
Space forecasters predict that solar storms could bring colorful auroras visible as far south as Iowa. Several northern U.S. states may witness these dazzling displays, caused by a recent solar event.
Solar Storm and Geomagnetic Storm Watch
The sun emitted a massive burst of energy known as a coronal mass ejection, currently heading toward Earth. This has led space weather experts to issue a strong geomagnetic storm watch, expected to begin between Thursday evening and Friday morning.
"It's possible auroras will quite likely spin up overnight," said Shawn Dahl, a space weather forecaster with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Visibility and Impact
The brightness and extent of the auroras depend on the timing of the solar burst's arrival and its interaction with Earth. Authorities are keeping an eye on the storm but do not expect major disturbances to radio or communication systems.
Potential Viewing Areas
- Alaska
- Washington
- Oregon
- Idaho
- Montana
- Wyoming
- North Dakota
- South Dakota
- Nebraska
- Minnesota
- Iowa
- Michigan
- Wisconsin
- New York
- Vermont
- New Hampshire
- Maine
- Northern Illinois
- Indiana
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Massachusetts
A bright moon close to Earth may make spotting the auroras more challenging, especially in urban areas. Northern lights might also be visible on Friday night, depending on ongoing solar activity.
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