Northern Lights Expected Across U.S. and Europe Tonight Due to Strong Solar Storm
A powerful solar flare and coronal mass ejection are set to create a geomagnetic storm, potentially making auroras visible as far south as California and the UK.
- The Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a G3 geomagnetic storm warning for September 16, 2024, due to a recent X4.5-class solar flare and coronal mass ejection.
- Auroras could be visible in over 20 U.S. states, including Oregon, Nebraska, and Pennsylvania, with potential sightings in the UK, particularly in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
- The solar storm may cause power fluctuations and disrupt radio and GPS signals, impacting communication and navigation systems.
- For optimal viewing, experts recommend finding dark, open areas away from city lights between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., with the best visibility around midnight.
- The sun is approaching the peak of its 11-year solar cycle, increasing the frequency of geomagnetic storms and aurora sightings.
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