Aurora Forecast: Northern Lights Expected Across the U.S.
The NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center has reported an ongoing strong geomagnetic storm, making the aurora borealis visible across much of the northern United States and possibly reaching some central regions.
Regions with the Best Chance of Viewing
According to NOAA’s forecast map, the greatest likelihood of seeing the northern lights extends from New York in the east to Washington state in the west. The southern viewing boundary may include Wyoming, Nebraska, and Iowa, depending on weather and geomagnetic intensity.
Conditions Affecting Visibility
The visibility of the aurora depends on both the strength of the geomagnetic storm and local weather conditions. Clear night skies and stronger geomagnetic activity increase the odds of a visible display.
Current Geomagnetic Storm Level
“A G3 geomagnetic storm is now in progress,” the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center announced early Thursday.
The G-scale ranges from G1 (minor) to G5 (extreme). NOAA described this event as a substantial disruption of Earth’s magnetic field, varying in intensity from moderate to strong over several hours or up to a full day.
Potential Technological Effects
In addition to creating auroral displays, strong geomagnetic storms can disrupt technology, including causing fluctuations in the power grid and interference with satellites, which may impact GPS functionality.
Author’s Summary
An intense geomagnetic storm could make the aurora borealis visible from many parts of the northern U.S. while also posing minor technological challenges.