This page was generated programmatically. To access the article in its initial location, you can visit the link below:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/conormurray/2024/12/30/northern-lights-forecast-these-18-states-could-see-strong-aurora-borealis-tonight-amid-geomagnetic-storm/
and if you wish to have this article removed from our site, please reach out to us
Overview
The aurora borealis might shine more brightly than normal in the northernmost states Monday evening, as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration anticipates an exceptionally vigorous aurora borealis forecast, following a robust geomagnetic storm expected to occur overnight.
The aurora borealis forecast for Monday evening is stronger than typical. (Photo by Hasan Akbas/Anadolu … [+]
Essential Information
The auroras on Monday night could register a Kp index up to 6.67 on a scale ranging from 0 to 9, according to NOAA’s three-day aurora borealis forecast, suggesting auroras that are “quite luminous and dynamic.”
The potentially vibrant auroras will be triggered by a significant G3-level geomagnetic storm that is set to happen overnight, according to NOAA, which is caused by an ejection of solar material that occurred on Sunday.
The strong forecast is anticipated to extend into Tuesday night with a slightly diminished expected Kp index of 5, based on NOAA’s predictions.
Where Will The Auroras Be Observable?
Alaska presents the greatest probability of witnessing auroras Monday evening (see map below). Other states with a lesser chance of observing the northern lights comprise Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin. States along the anticipated visibility line of the auroras—the southern limit of their viewing potential—include Oregon, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.
Aurora forecast for Monday evening.
What’s The Optimal Method To Experience The Auroras?
NOAA recommends the ideal time to observe the auroras is from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. local time. The agency also suggests seeking a high lookout point with unimpeded views, steering clear of light pollution, and traveling as far north as feasible.
What’s The Best Approach To Capture Photos Of The Auroras?
National Geographic advises utilizing a tripod for steadiness, employing a lower shutter speed, using a wide-angle lens, and activating night mode if utilizing an iPhone.
Significant Background
The visibility of northern lights reached a 500-year high this year, according to NASA, as solar activity has surpassed the predictions of scientists. The agency revealed in October that the sun had attained its “solar maximum” in its current 11-year solar cycle, signifying a period of increased activity from the sun that includes solar flares, geomagnetic storms, and coronal mass ejections. NASA anticipates that the heightened solar activity will continue throughout 2025 and 2026 before diminishing in the latter part of the decade.
Additional Reading
Displays of Northern Lights Achieve A 500-Year Zenith In 2024—Here’s Where You Might Observe Aurora Borealis In 2025 (Forbes)
This page was generated programmatically. To access the article in its initial location, you can visit the link below:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/conormurray/2024/12/30/northern-lights-forecast-these-18-states-could-see-strong-aurora-borealis-tonight-amid-geomagnetic-storm/
and if you wish to have this article removed from our site, please reach out to us
