Northern Lights May Illuminate Skies Across 18 U.S. States Due to Solar Storm
A solar storm is expected to make the aurora borealis visible in 18 U.S. states from August 7 to 9, according to NOAA.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has announced that a coronal mass ejection (CME) and a coronal hole high-speed stream (CH HSS) are expected to impact Earth, potentially causing geomagnetic storms from August 7 to 9. This activity may make the aurora borealis visible in 18 U.S. states, including Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Maine, South Dakota, Vermont, New Hampshire, Idaho, Washington, Oregon, New York, Wyoming, Iowa, Nebraska, and Illinois.
NOAA has issued a G2 (Moderate) geomagnetic storm watch for August 8 and a G1 (Minor) watch for August 9. The exact timing of the auroral activity is uncertain, but it could occur anytime between 11 p.m. on August 7 and August 9. Optimal viewing conditions depend on weather and dark skies. Residents in the affected states are advised to find a north-facing vantage point away from light pollution, with the best viewing times likely around 2 a.m. Utilizing aurora tracking apps may also enhance the chances of witnessing the display.