Solar Storm to Offer Skygazers in 17 States a Glimpse of the Northern Lights
A solar storm expected to occur on Thursday will give skygazers in 17 American states a rare opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Also known as aurora borealis, this natural phenomenon is typically seen in Alaska, Canada, and Scandinavia. However, due to an ongoing 11-year solar cycle that is projected to reach its peak in 2024, the lights have become visible in more southerly locations.
Just three months ago, these captivating light displays were seen in Arizona, marking the third severe geomagnetic storm since the commencement of the current solar cycle in 2019. Now, residents of Alaska, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, New Hampshire, Vermont, Indiana, Maine, and Maryland have been informed by the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska at Fairbanks that auroral activity is anticipated on Thursday. The beautiful light displays are also expected to be visible in Vancouver, Canada.
According to the Geophysical Institute, the best viewing opportunities will be overhead in Milwaukee, Minneapolis, and Helena, Montana. In other locations such as Salem, Oregon; Boise, Idaho; Cheyenne, Wyoming; Annapolis, Maryland; and Indianapolis, the lights will be seen low on the horizon. To fully experience the Northern Lights, experts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center recommend getting away from city lights. The optimal viewing times are between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time.
The Northern Lights occur when the Earth’s magnetic field is hit by a magnetic solar wind, causing atoms in the upper atmosphere to emit a stunning glow. The lights can appear suddenly and their intensity varies. A geomagnetic index called Kp rates auroral activity from zero to nine, with zero indicating a lack of activity and nine representing a bright and active event. The Geophysical Institute has forecasted a Kp 6 rating for Thursday’s storm, indicating significant activity.
This solar storm presents a unique opportunity for residents of these American states, who would usually have to travel much farther to witness the Northern Lights. As the solar cycle progresses, it is likely that sightings will continue in more southerly regions, allowing even more people to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the aurora borealis.