Geomagnetic Storm Boosts Aurora Borealis Visibility
The northern lights could light up the skies over 15 states this week, thanks to a minor geomagnetic storm, according to NOAA. Experts say Tuesday night offers an unusually bright and active display for aurora watchers.
Storm Details and Aurora Predictions
Forecasters reported a Kp index of 5 out of 9, indicating stronger-than-usual aurora activity with vivid motions and formations. The storm stems from coronal mass ejections—plasma bursts from the Sun with stronger magnetic fields than typical solar winds—that reached Earth earlier this week.
NOAA briefly issued a G3 or “strong” geomagnetic storm alert Tuesday morning. G3 storms, rated 1 to 5, can disrupt satellites and low-frequency radio navigation, though recent similar storms caused minimal effects. Historically, auroras during G3 storms have been visible as far south as Illinois, with Kp index peaks reaching 7.
Where to Spot the Northern Lights
Tuesday’s aurora could be visible across the northern United States, including:
Northwest: Washington, northern Idaho Panhandle, Montana, northeastern Wyoming
Midwest: North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, northern Iowa
Northeast: Upstate New York, northern Vermont, northern New Hampshire, parts of Maine
Alaska: Most regions will also be within the viewing zone
The northern lights are most likely to appear closer to the magnetic north pole, stretching along the Canadian border.
Tips for Optimal Viewing
NOAA recommends heading to a clear, dark vantage point away from city lights. Look north, and plan to watch two hours before and after midnight, when aurora activity peaks.
Traveling closer to higher latitudes increases the chances of spotting the full spectacle of moving, colorful auroras.
Aurora enthusiasts are encouraged to keep cameras ready and enjoy the natural light show as the geomagnetic storm paints the sky.
Stay tuned to Maple Wire Now for more updates on celestial events and skywatching alerts.
