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6mo ago

Northern Lights Expected Across Northern U.S. Amid Strong Solar Activity

A series of powerful solar flares may bring vibrant aurora displays to parts of the U.S. this weekend, with visibility reaching as far south as New York and Oregon.

Image
The northern lights, or the aurora borealis, appear in the sky over Rat Lake in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories on Thursday, Aug.8, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Bill Braden
The northern lights (aurora borealis) illuminating the sky above Guelpe by Havelaue in the Dark-sky preserve Westhavelland in eastern Germany, during the annual Perseids meteor shower on August 13, 2024.

Overview

  • The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a G3 geomagnetic storm watch due to recent solar flares, suggesting strong aurora activity from October 4 to 6.
  • The solar flares, classified as X7.1 and X9.0, are the most intense in the current solar cycle and could cause auroras visible across northern U.S. states.
  • Aurora visibility may extend into parts of the Midwest and the Northeast, including states like Iowa, Michigan, and New York, depending on weather conditions.
  • Observers are advised to seek locations with minimal light pollution and clear skies between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. for the best chance of seeing the aurora borealis.
  • The solar activity is part of the sun's 11-year cycle, currently approaching its peak, which increases the frequency and intensity of geomagnetic storms.