Solar storm to bring northern lights to unexpected US regions

A stunning display of the northern lights, or aurora borealis, is expected to light up the skies across parts of the U.S. after the Sun unleashed some of its most powerful solar flares in recent years, this weekend.

These spectacular light displays are typically limited to high-latitude regions like Alaska, but this weekend, they may be visible much further south, offering millions of Americans a rare chance to witness this incredible natural phenomenon.

On October 2, 2024, the Sun released an enormous solar flare, classified as an X7.1, which was followed by a coronal mass ejection (CME).

 

This massive burst of plasma and magnetic particles is now heading toward Earth, where it will collide with our planet’s atmosphere, creating the vibrant and colorful lights associated with the aurora.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has upgraded the resulting geomagnetic storm to a G3-level, the third most powerful on a scale of five.

This means that not only will the northern lights be visible further south than usual, but they are also expected to be brighter and more dynamic.

 

The northern lights are caused when charged particles from the Sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field.

These particles collide with gases in the atmosphere, producing beautiful colors such as green, purple, red, and sometimes even blue.

This weekend’s strong geomagnetic storm will enhance the intensity and visibility of these lights, making them a must-see event for skywatchers.

Where and When to See the Northern Lights

According to NOAA, the best viewing times for the northern lights will be between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time on Friday, October 4, and Saturday, October 5.

However, the lights may still be visible before or after these hours, depending on local conditions such as cloud cover and light pollution.

The states most likely to see the aurora borealis include:

• Washington

• Oregon

• Idaho

• Montana

• Wyoming

• North Dakota

• South Dakota

• Minnesota

• Iowa

• Wisconsin

• Michigan

• New York

• Vermont

• New Hampshire

• Maine

Residents in these areas, especially those away from city lights, are in for a dazzling show.

In perfect weather conditions, people as far south as Pennsylvania and Iowa may also catch a glimpse of the lights, though the visibility will be clearest in places with dark skies and low light pollution.

What to Expect

This weekend’s aurora display is expected to be especially vivid and dynamic due to the strength of the solar storm.

The lights often appear as shimmering curtains of green and purple, but during stronger storms, colors like pink, red, and blue can also be seen.

The colors are produced by different gases in the atmosphere, oxygen emits green and red light, while nitrogen gives off purple and blue.

As the solar particles collide with the gases in the atmosphere, the lights seem to "dance" across the sky, creating an ever-changing display that can last for minutes or even hours.

NOAA predicts this weekend's northern lights will be particularly “pleasing to look at,” with plenty of movement and vibrant colors.

How to Prepare for Viewing

For the best chance to witness the aurora borealis, experts recommend traveling to an area far from city lights, such as a hilltop or rural spot.

The darker the sky, the better the visibility.

Cloud cover can block the view, so checking local weather reports is crucial. Ideal conditions include clear skies and a location free from artificial light pollution.

Although the lights are most active between 10pm and 2am, they can appear earlier or later depending on the local weather.

 

To improve your chances, be prepared to stay outside for a while. Dress warmly, bring snacks, and make the event an enjoyable experience.

Smartphone cameras are often sensitive enough to capture the auroras, even when they appear faint to the naked eye.

To photograph the lights, turn on night mode on your phone and find a steady position for clear shots.

Solar Activity and What It Means

This spectacular light show is happening because of Solar Cycle 25, an 11-year cycle during which solar activity increases.

This cycle is expected to peak between late 2024 and 2026, meaning that more intense solar flares and geomagnetic storms could occur, bringing more opportunities to see the northern lights in the coming years.

Solar flares like the one seen earlier this week emit bursts of radiation that can cause minor disruptions to power grids, satellite communications, and GPS systems, though no major issues are expected this weekend.

 

Despite these risks, the solar flares also bring the beautiful reward of the aurora borealis, making it a celestial event worth watching.

As Solar Cycle 25 continues to approach its peak, skywatchers can expect more frequent and impressive aurora displays.

With solar activity on the rise, the northern lights may continue to provide breathtaking views for stargazers well into 2025.

For now, this weekend offers a rare opportunity to see the northern lights further south than usual, making it an unmissable event for those in the US who want to experience one of nature’s most spectacular shows.