Heads up, aurora lovers! Exciting news: a powerful solar storm is set to light up the skies, just in time for Labor Day weekend.
On August 30, a strong M2.7 solar flare erupted from sunspot Active Region 4199. This caused a fast-moving coronal mass ejection (CME) aimed directly at Earth. Experts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predict it will arrive late on September 1 into early September 2 (UTC).
When this CME hits, moderate storm conditions (G2) are likely, escalating to strong levels (G3). This means the northern lights could be visible well beyond their usual range, reaching into areas across the northern United States.
Space weather physicist Tamitha Skov notes that there are actually two storms on a collision course with Earth. She explained that NOAA’s model suggests the larger storm could catch up with the smaller one right before impact. This “cannibal CME” effect could cause an earlier disturbance, with the main impact expected by late September 1.
The U.K. Met Office has also issued an alert, indicating the auroral oval could be “significantly enhanced.” Clear skies in East Anglia, the Midlands, and Wales may allow more viewers to witness this spectacular display, though a waxing gibbous moon could make visibility tricky.
Geomagnetic storms like these can disrupt satellites and radio signals. They are categorized on a scale from G1 (minor) to G5 (extreme), with G3 storms allowing for auroras around mid-latitudes. States such as Oregon, Illinois, and New York could experience this stunning phenomenon.
Space weather events aren’t just for sky watchers; they remind us of our connections to the vast universe. With aurora conditions likely to stay elevated through September 3, even if one night gets cloudy, there may be more chances to see the northern lights in the following days.
So, keep looking up, and enjoy the show!
Source link
