NEW YORK (AP) — A recent solar storm is expected to illuminate the night skies with colorful auroras across several northern U.S. states on Thursday night. This phenomenon is a result of a massive release of energy known as a coronal mass ejection, which is currently traveling toward Earth and has prompted space weather forecasters to issue a strong geomagnetic storm watch.
The anticipated arrival of this solar activity is expected between Thursday evening and Friday morning. The brightness of the auroras and their visibility will largely depend on the timing of the solar burst's arrival and its interactions with Earth's magnetic field. Shawn Dahl, a space weather forecaster with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), indicated in an email that the auroras could "quite likely spin up overnight" if the conditions align favorably.
While authorities closely monitor the incoming solar storm, they do not foresee significant disruptions to communication or radio signals. The northern lights may be visible from rural and darker areas in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota, Iowa, Michigan, Wisconsin, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and the northern regions of Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts.
The current lunar phase, with a bright moon residing close to Earth, may complicate the visibility of the auroras. Observers may also look forward to potential aurora sightings on Friday night, depending on ongoing solar activity.
The sun is currently experiencing the peak of its 11-year solar activity cycle, which means that aurora displays are becoming more common and widespread this year. Experts highlight that colorful northern and southern lights are typically visible near the poles, where charged particles from the sun interact with Earth’s atmosphere. The ongoing solar cycle has resulted in auroras being seen farther south than usual, including regions in both the United States and Europe.
Last year, a powerful geomagnetic storm, the strongest in two decades, created stunning light displays across the Northern Hemisphere, surprising many in locations such as Germany, the United Kingdom, New England, and even New York City. This active phase of solar activity is forecasted to continue at least until the end of this year, although the peak of the activity might only be determined months after it has occurred, according to NASA and NOAA.
Solar storms bring more than just spectacular visuals; they can disrupt various technologies on Earth. When fast-moving particles collide with Earth's magnetic field, they have the potential to temporarily disrupt power grids and may affect satellite communications and air traffic control radios. Historical events illustrate the severity of solar storms: in 1859, a significant solar storm triggered auroras visible as far south as Hawaii and ignited telegraph lines. A solar storm in 1972 was implicated in the detonation of magnetic sea mines off the coast of Vietnam.
Due to the unpredictability of solar storms, experts are unable to provide long-term forecasts; instead, they offer alerts in the days leading up to a solar outburst hitting Earth.
For those wishing to witness the northern lights, forecasts are available through NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center and various aurora forecasting apps. To increase chances of seeing the auroras, enthusiasts are advised to find quiet, dark locations away from city lights, such as local or national parks. Additionally, checking the weather forecast is crucial, as overcast conditions can entirely obstruct the view. Interestingly, taking photos with a smartphone camera may capture hints of auroras that aren't visible to the naked eye.
The Associated Press ensures comprehensive coverage of the implications and excitement surrounding these celestial events, bringing attention to a natural spectacle that captures the imagination and curiosity of many.
