Capture the Northern Lights Tonight in These 12 U.S. States
Aurora Forecast: Last Chance for Captivating Northern Lights Display
Unexpected Geomagnetic Storms Illuminate Skies
Tonight offers a final opportunity for aurora watchers to capture the stunning northern lights, as geomagnetic activity is expected to decline over the weekend. Recent nights have surprised space weather enthusiasts with stronger-than-expected geomagnetic storms, illuminating skies as far south as New York. The NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) has issued a G2 (moderate) geomagnetic storm watch for October 2, as solar winds continue to impact Earth’s magnetic field.
Northern Lights Visibility: Where and When
The NOAA’s 3-day Kp index forecast suggests minor to moderate geomagnetic activity today, with a potential peak during daytime hours. Despite this timing, aurora activity is anticipated to remain strong into the evening, offering increased chances for northern lights sightings. With the storm strength possibly reaching G2 levels, the aurora could be visible across various states in the northern U.S., weather permitting.
- Alaska
- Washington
- Idaho
- Montana
- North Dakota
- South Dakota
- Minnesota
- Wisconsin
- Michigan
- New York
- Maine
- Wyoming
Aurora Forecast for the Weekend
While auroras may linger into October 3, this evening might be the last significant display from the current space weather event. Both NOAA and the U.K. Met Office predict a stabilization of geomagnetic conditions as solar wind activity diminishes.
Tips for a Memorable Northern Lights Experience
If you’re in a location with potential aurora visibility, consider these tips to enhance your viewing experience:
- Select a dark area away from city lights.
- Find a location with a clear north-facing horizon.
- Begin observing around midnight and continue to 2 a.m. local time, or as soon as the skies darken.
- Exercise patience, as auroras can appear faint initially.
Apps like “My Aurora Forecast & Alerts” and “Space Weather Live” on iOS and Android can provide location-based aurora forecasts and deeper insights into geomagnetic conditions.
Understanding the Current Aurora Activity
This current aurora event is powered by high-speed solar wind emanating from a positive polarity coronal hole, a region of the sun’s open magnetic field lines. These winds, exceeding speeds of 800 km/s, are impacting Earth’s magnetic field, creating conducive conditions for auroras. The equinox period, known as the Russell-McPherson Effect, enhances Earth’s susceptibility to solar disturbances, heightening aurora displays.
The NOAA reports that the solar wind conditions are “elevated and disturbed,” with a southward magnetic field orientation (Bz), essential for activating geomagnetic storms and making auroras visible.
