Witness Northern Lights Tonight: These 15 US States have a rare chance to see Auroras this weekend. Here's the list and viewing tips
AP FILE - Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, shining over the Sycamore Gap tree, on Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland, England, July 3, 2016. (Owen Humphreys/PA via AP, File)
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has reported that 15 US states could see the northern lights tonight and through the weekend. Increased geomagnetic activity is creating a wider viewing range than usual. This is due to high-speed solar winds currently affecting Earth's magnetic field.Earth is experiencing strong solar winds. These winds are pressing against the planet's magnetic field. As a result, a geomagnetic storm has formed. The NOAA says this storm may lead to visible auroras in many states.
The NOAA currently predicts a minor G1 storm. But space weather changes fast. Earlier this week, a surprise G3 storm caused auroras to be seen in 17 states and even reached Italy. That storm was only forecast to be a G1. The current Kp index is expected to peak at 4.67 this weekend. This index measures auroral activity from 0 to 9. A higher number means stronger auroras.
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Alaska has the highest chance to see auroras. Other northern states may also see the lights if G1 conditions occur. If the storm level reaches G3 again, auroras may stretch as far south as Illinois and Oregon.
Below are the 15 states with a chance to see auroras. They are listed from most likely to least likely based on their location:AlaskaMontanaNorth DakotaMinnesotaUpper MichiganWisconsinIdahoVermontMaineNew HampshireNew YorkSouth DakotaWyomingWashingtonIowa
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If you live in one of these states, try to find a dark area away from city lights. Face north and watch the skies between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m. This time may offer the best chance to see the lights.
As summer nears, nights are shorter. This reduces the window to see auroras. Using space weather apps can help you plan. Some apps include 'My Aurora Forecast & Alerts' and 'Space Weather Live,' both available on iOS and Android.
What causes the northern lights to appear in more states than usual?
High-speed solar winds increase geomagnetic activity, pushing auroras farther south than usual and making them visible in more areas.
What is the best time to view the northern lights?
The early morning hours between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m. are best, especially in areas with little or no light pollution.
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