Northern Lights Visible Across Northern U.S. Due to Solar Activity

A significant coronal hole in the sun's atmosphere has led to increased auroral activity, making the northern lights visible across several northern U.S. states.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts a moderate G2 geomagnetic storm from the evening of April 17 through the early hours of April 18. This event may cause auroras to be visible as far south as Illinois and Oregon.

NOAA provides real-time aurora forecasts and maps to assist observers in determining the best viewing times and locations.

The aurora borealis results from electrons colliding with Earth's upper atmosphere, a phenomenon that can impact technologies such as HF radio communication and GPS satellite navigation.

States with the highest likelihood of aurora visibility include Alaska, Idaho, Iowa, Illinois, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

NOAA notes that the aurora is a beautiful nighttime phenomenon worth observing, as it is the only way for most people to experience space weather.