Northern Lights Illuminate Skies Across 22 States
A recent burst of solar activity has set the stage for a dazzling natural display. Stargazers across 22 U.S. states, including New York, may witness an extraordinary show of northern lights tonight, sparked by a powerful geomagnetic storm.
Solar Flare and Coronal Mass Ejection
On November 5, an M7.4 solar flare erupted from the sun, releasing a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME)—a surge of plasma and magnetic energy traveling at speeds between 2.5 and 3.1 million miles per hour. This event, reported by Space.com, has activated both the aurora borealis and aurora australis.
Potential Impact of the Geomagnetic Storm
According to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, the CME is expected to reach Earth late on November 6 or early November 7, potentially triggering G3-level geomagnetic storm conditions. NOAA noted:
“Watches have been issued for these times with moderate to high confidence in timing, and moderate confidence in magnitude.”
If the CME strikes as anticipated, it could significantly enhance auroral activity, pushing vivid displays toward the U.S. Midwest and providing rare visibility far from the poles.
Experts Weigh In
“A whole train of big #solarstorms are on their way, along with some smaller storms hitting now, and some fast solar wind! It is an #aurora photographer’s dream starting now and lasting at least through the weekend,”
wrote space weather physicist Tamitha Skov on X, expressing excitement about the incoming wave of solar storms.
Viewing Outlook
For those hoping to witness the spectacle, clear skies and minimal light pollution will offer the best chance to see the colorful ribbons of light dancing across the night sky.
Author’s Summary: A massive solar flare set off a geomagnetic storm that may light up the skies across much of the U.S., creating vivid northern lights visible far beyond usual regions.
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