Solar Storm to Bring Aurora Potential
A powerful solar storm, triggered by a coronal mass ejection (CME) that erupted from the sun on Saturday, is expected to reach Earth late Monday, increasing the likelihood of northern lights displays across the northern United States. The CME is traveling at over 2 million miles per hour and is Earth-directed, which could lead to moderate to strong geomagnetic storms (G2 to G3 levels) between Monday afternoon and Tuesday.
Best Viewing Locations
Residents in northern states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, and Montana, have the best chance of viewing the aurora if skies remain clear. The northern lights could extend further south depending on the strength of the storm. This solar event offers a rare opportunity to witness a vibrant light show in the night sky.
Potential Disruptions
While the aurora is an exciting spectacle, NOAA warns of potential disruptions from the solar storm. High-frequency radio communications, GPS accuracy, and satellite operations could experience interference. Power grids are also being monitored for possible fluctuations. The most significant effects could occur if the CME’s magnetic field aligns favorably with Earth’s, potentially escalating conditions to G4 storm levels.
Safety and Updates
The solar storm is expected to impact Earth through Tuesday, and NOAA will continue to monitor the situation. Stay tuned for more updates on potential disruptions and the best viewing opportunities for the auroras. If you’re in the northern U.S., it’s a great time to keep an eye on the sky for this rare natural phenomenon!
