Northern Lights Visible Across 22 U.S. States on Thursday
The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, may be seen across northern parts of 22 U.S. states this week after a geomagnetic storm predicted by NOAA's space weather experts.
Forecast Details
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center, an upgraded forecast indicates a strong G3 geomagnetic storm caused by a coronal mass ejection arriving at Earth.
The forecast predicts “a fair measure of confidence” in this unusually strong event expected as soon as darkness falls on Thursday, November 6.
Scope of Visibility
The aurora may be visible in northern skies stretching from the lower Midwest to Oregon. NOAA’s aurora view line suggests that 21 states could witness this rare display.
Solar Activity Background
While solar maximum — the peak of the Sun’s 11-year activity cycle — has passed, intense solar outbursts are still occurring. On November 4, solar flares of X1.1 and X1.8 class were recorded, flanked by slightly weaker M3.5 and M7.4 flares.
These flares generated clouds of charged particles known as coronal mass ejections, which can spark geomagnetic storms and produce spectacular auroras.
Timing
The G3 geomagnetic storm is expected to begin after sunset on Thursday, November 6, and continue into the early morning hours of Friday, November 7.