Northern Lights Visibility Expands Across 22 US States
Tonight, auroras may be visible from Alaska to Illinois as geomagnetic storm conditions are expected to persist. Earth is preparing for a surge in northern and southern lights due to a powerful coronal mass ejection (CME) launched from the sun during an M7.4 solar flare yesterday.
Arrival and Impact of the Coronal Mass Ejection
The fast-moving CME is predicted to reach Earth late tonight or early Friday morning (Nov. 7 UTC), potentially causing strong (G3) geomagnetic storms. This forecast comes from NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center.
Earlier, a surprise display of auroras occurred overnight caused by a glancing CME combined with residual effects from a high-speed solar wind stream. This event raised geomagnetic activity to G3 levels, producing visible northern lights across parts of the northern U.S., Canada, and Europe.
Current Storm Watches and Possible Effects
- The Met Office and NOAA are currently issuing G3 storm watches for November.
- If the CME arrives as expected and aligns well with Earth's magnetic field, it could intensify auroras at high and possibly mid-latitudes.
“An aurora photographer's dream starting now and lasting at least through the weekend,” said space weather physicist Tamitha Skov, who also noted that G3 to G4 storm levels might happen by Friday as multiple CMEs interact with Earth’s magnetic field.
Author's summary: A strong solar event promises enhanced aurora displays across many US states this weekend, with geomagnetic storms potentially reaching levels that thrill skywatchers and photographers alike.