A powerful coronal mass ejection (CME) has hit Earth, leading to severe geomagnetic storm conditions (G4 level). NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center confirmed this event, which means the northern lights may be visible much farther south than usual tonight. Enthusiasts should prepare for an exciting night of auroras.
The CME burst forth during a strong X-class solar flare on January 18, moving at speeds between 620 and 870 miles per second. As night falls, those interested in catching a glimpse of the auroras should make sure their camera batteries are charged and alerts are turned on—the conditions look promising!
According to NOAA, the G4 storm levels were first noted at 2:38 PM EST today. This event suggests that the auroras could be visible in many parts of the northern U.S., provided the skies are clear and the magnetic field aligns favorably. With these conditions, tonight could offer stunning displays.
As the storm progresses, it’s essential to note that auroras can be unpredictable. Some predictions indicate that up to 24 states could potentially have views of this spectacular light show. The list includes places like:
- Alaska
- Washington
- Oregon
- Idaho
- Montana
- North Dakota
- Michigan
- New York
However, keep in mind that the visibility of northern lights depends on several factors. If the magnetic conditions align well, we might see auroras as far south as Missouri and possibly even further. But if conditions don’t cooperate, we may end up disappointed.
When the CME reaches Earth, its magnetic orientation is critical. If it aligns southward, it can merge with Earth’s magnetic field, allowing solar energy into our atmosphere to fuel geomagnetic storms. Conversely, if it’s northward, much of that energy gets deflected, and the anticipated display may not occur.
To maximize your chances of seeing the northern lights tonight, here are a few tips:
- Find a dark spot with a clear view to the north.
- Use your phone’s camera to spot faint auroras before your eyes adjust.
- Give your eyes about 30 minutes to adapt to the darkness.
- Dress warmly, as you might be waiting outside for a while.
A clear sky will be essential. The best time to watch for auroras is as soon as it gets dark, with heightened activity expected from 1 AM to 4 AM EST. However, keep an eye on the sky throughout the night since activity can start earlier than expected.
For those keen to capture stunning aurora photos, consider downloading a space weather app to help you track auroral activity based on your location. Apps like “My Aurora Forecast & Alerts” or “Space Weather Live” can be invaluable resources for enthusiasts.
In summary, tonight’s CME holds the potential for stunning auroras across many states. Whether you catch the lights or not, it’s an exciting time for sky watchers!
