Solar Storm on Thursday to Make Northern Lights Visible in Limited US States
A solar storm predicted for Thursday is expected to create an amazing spectacle for skygazers in certain states along the US-Canada border. The storm is anticipated to give a faint glimpse of the northern lights, also known as aurora borealis. These lights are seen most often in Alaska, Canada, and Scandinavia, but due to an 11-year solar cycle reaching its peak in 2024, they may become visible in more southern regions.
Just three months ago, the northern lights were visible in Arizona, marking the third severe geomagnetic storm since the start of the current solar cycle in 2019. This has raised hopes that more people in the United States will have the chance to witness this natural phenomenon.
The Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks has predicted auroral activity on Thursday, based on a long-term outlook. Canada is also expecting auroral activity during this time.
While the lights will be more pronounced in regions closer to the US-Canada border, small sections of states such as Wisconsin, Michigan, and Montana may also get a glimpse of the aurora. However, it is important to note that for most of those in the contiguous US, the lights will likely only appear as a faint glow on the horizon, according to Lt. Bryan Brasher, a project manager for NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.
For those hoping to experience the northern lights, it is recommended to venture away from city lights for the best viewing. The optimal time to catch a glimpse is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center.
The northern lights occur when a magnetic solar wind collides with the Earth’s magnetic field, causing atoms in the upper atmosphere to emit light. The lights can appear suddenly and their intensity can vary.
Overall, Thursday’s solar storm presents a unique opportunity for some skygazers in the US to witness the beauty of the northern lights. As long as weather conditions are favorable, those in the specified regions may be treated to a rare sight in the night sky.
Note: This story has been updated to correct the extent to which people can see the northern lights from the United States on Thursday, July 13, 2023.
