Kasia Dietz
Updated on: October 12, 2024 12:25 am GMT
Skies across much of the northern United States may soon light up with a spectacular display of the northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, as a strong geomagnetic storm is expected to sweep through on Sunday night into Monday morning. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a forecast indicating that the auroras might be visible as far south as Pennsylvania, Iowa, and Oregon due to heightened geomagnetic activity.
Geomagnetic Storm Details
According to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, the geomagnetic storm is anticipated to reach a G3 level on a scale where G5 indicates the most intense storms. This upcoming storm is linked to the eruption of solar material, which increases interactions between solar particles and Earth’s atmosphere.
Understanding the Kp Index
The intensity and visibility of the auroras are measured using the Kp index, which ranges from 0 to 9:
- Kp 0-2: Auroras are faint and located far north; visibility is very limited.
- Kp 3-5: Auroras become brighter and may be found further south, visible in numerous northern locations.
- Kp 6-7: Expect bright and active auroras, potentially visible from the northern edges of the continental U.S.
- Kp 8-9: Extremely bright displays may be observed significantly further south, even overhead in northern states.
For the upcoming events, NOAA forecasts a Kp index of seven on Sunday night, suggesting a bright and active aurora display. The following night, a lesser Kp index of five may still yield opportunities to catch the aurora, albeit in fewer locations.
Visibility Conditions
For optimal viewing of the northern lights, it is crucial to find dark areas away from city lights. The best time to observe the auroras is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time. Some tips for aurora viewing include:
- Seek locations far removed from city lights.
- Look for an unobstructed view looking north.
- Be patient; the auroras can emerge at any time within the viewing window.
Upcoming Aurora Activity
The northern lights have been increasingly visible in recent months due to a solar cycle approaching its peak, which is expected between late 2024 and early 2026. Over the past months, solar activity has been high, resulting in frequent auroral displays, with the potential for more opportunities in the weeks ahead.
Forecast Area
NOAA anticipates that the northern lights will be visible from a wide range of states, including:
- Washington
- Oregon
- North Dakota
- South Dakota
- Montana
- Minnesota
- Wisconsin
- Michigan
- New York
- Vermont
- New Hampshire
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- Parts of Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania
- Much of Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, and Iowa
While interest in the aurora borealis is heightened, it is important to stay informed about solar activity forecasts, as geomagnetic storms are unpredictable and can change rapidly.
Impacts and Precautions
Although geomagnetic storms can interfere with power grids and satellite communications, the general public typically does not need to be concerned about adverse effects for aurora viewing. Instead, these solar interactions result in the stunning displays of light in the night sky.
As we approach this unique opportunity to see the northern lights from lower latitudes, the fascination with them continues to grow. The unexpected display seen during a previous strong geomagnetic storm this year surprised many observers as far south as California and southern Nevada.
Preparation for aurora watching includes checking local weather forecasts for clear skies, ensuring that you are in a suitable location, and bringing along warm clothing for potentially chilly nights outdoors.
If you’ve never seen the northern lights, this weekend is a great chance to try! A geomagnetic storm is coming, and people who love nature and those who are just curious will be looking up at the sky to catch a glimpse of this amazing sight.
