Dazzling Northern Lights Expected Tonight as Solar Storm Pushes Aurora Visibility Across the U.S.

A large solar storm will show the Northern Lights tonight, a rare treat for US skywatchers. The aurora borealis is expected to reach more than a dozen states, from the upper Midwest to the Northeast and Pacific Northwest, farther south than usual.

The spectacular event occurred when a solar flare drove charged particles toward Earth. When they collide with our planet’s magnetic field, these particles release bright colors above the atmosphere. An amazing curtain of green, pink, and purple light covers the night sky. Nature’s most beautiful light show is 300 miles above ground.

Space Weather Prediction Center experts say this storm might move the aurora north. Lights may be visible from Pennsylvania, Missouri, Colorado, and Oregon without driving north. If skies are clear, New Jersey, which performed well in late May, may see it.

The sun is in a “solar maximum,” a cycle of increased solar flare activity every 11 years, say astronomers. Aurora sightings increase because to increasingly frequent and strong solar flares. Aurora aficionados worldwide will be excited in the future, say space specialists. Solar maximum is the greatest time to witness auroras.

Tonight may not rival the 2024 auroras, but it’s one of the best chances to see them this year. Cloudless sky and dark places away from city lights offer the best views.

To see the lights in person, choose a dark area away from city lights, face north, and let your eyes adjust. Patient viewing of sky color changes is rewarding. Auroras can be immortalized with long-exposure pictures.

Tonight’s storm may provide millions of Americans a rare chance to view nature’s beauty from home. Northern Lights are a scientific marvel and a reminder of Earth’s special relationship with the sun.

Sources:
AccuWeather
Space Weather Prediction Center
University of Alberta – Faculty of Science