Millions of Americans may have a chance to see the northern lights this week, depending on clear skies and geomagnetic activity. A forecast from NOAA suggests that aurora borealis could be visible in 10 states on Wednesday and Thursday nights.
Auroras occur when particles from the sun collide with Earth’s magnetic field, creating energy that lights up the upper atmosphere. The Northern Lights can appear as glowing waves or arcs of color across the night sky, typically green but sometimes red or purple.
NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center forecasts visibility over parts of Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Maine over the next two nights. The center’s view line tool uses geomagnetic data to estimate where auroral activity might be visible.
Clear skies and low light pollution are crucial for viewing the Northern Lights. Even in areas within the forecast’s visibility band, cloud cover or city lights can prevent a sighting. Mike Bettwy, operations chief of the Space Weather Prediction Center, advises viewers to look late at night, away from city lights, and use technology such as smartphones to capture images.
The SWPC updates its forecasts regularly, so those interested in viewing the Northern Lights should check the latest prediction and seek out dark, clear areas with a view of the northern horizon.
Source: https://www.newsweek.com/northern-lights-visible-10-states-tonight-map-2057406