Aurora Forecast: Northern Lights Expected Across the US
The NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center reports a strong geomagnetic storm currently underway. This storm increases the chances of seeing the aurora borealis, or northern lights, across the northern United States and possibly some central states on Thursday and Friday.
Visibility Range and Conditions
The highest probability of viewing stretches from New York in the east to Washington state in the west. Sightings may extend southward to Wyoming, Nebraska, and Iowa, based on a NOAA forecast map. The visibility depends largely on the storm's strength and sky clarity; clearer skies combined with a strong storm improve the chances of seeing the northern lights.
Details of the Geomagnetic Storm
Early Thursday, NOAA classified the ongoing storm as a "G3" event on their scale from G1 (minor) to G5 (extreme). According to NOAA, this represents a significant disturbance in Earth's magnetic field that can fluctuate in intensity over hours or a day during the event.
"A larger disturbance in Earth's magnetic field. It can vary in intensity between lower levels and strong storm conditions over the course of hours to a day during the event duration."
Effects Beyond Auroras
Besides boosting northern lights visibility, strong geomagnetic storms can disrupt technology. Possible impacts include fluctuations in power grids and satellite interference, which may affect GPS systems.
Summary: A notable geomagnetic storm is increasing the likelihood of northern lights across much of the US, with visibility influenced by storm strength and clear weather, while also posing risks to certain technologies.