A minor geomagnetic storm watch has been issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for December 25, with possible northern lights visible in upper Midwest states. The storm is caused by an incoming coronal mass ejection (CME) that will collide with Earth’s magnetic field, sparking auroras.
The CME was detected on December 23 during a powerful M8.9 solar flare eruption and is expected to land on Earth with a glancing blow. When it strikes our planet, the electrically charged particles will interact with atmospheric gases, releasing energy that manifests as light – creating the stunning displays known as the northern lights.
NOAA has classified the storm as a G1, indicating minor storm conditions. The forecast predicts possible G1 conditions on December 25, and space weather physicist Tamitha Skov has provided an informative space weather forecast for the days ahead.
While space weather is unpredictable, this level of warning is rare but can occasionally amount to nothing. For those interested in tracking space weather and knowing when and where to spot auroras, downloading a space weather app that provides forecasts based on your location can be helpful.
Aurora enthusiasts should check out the NOAA’s 3-day forecast for the latest timings, and consider using apps like “My Aurora Forecast & Alerts” or “Space Weather Live” to stay informed. Daisy Dobrijevic, a Space.com writer, is also passionate about solar activity and space weather, and will be keeping an eye on this developing story.
Source: https://www.space.com/stargazing/aurora-borealis/aurora-alert-geomagnetic-storm-could-spark-northern-lights-in-upper-midwest-skies-this-christmas