2020 has been an atypical year, so much so that now New Yorkers will be able to enjoy the light show that the northern lights give away.
A rare and spectacular view of the Northern Lights will be possible this week in several US states, possibly as far south as New York.
The National Metereological Service reported Wednesday that a solar storm could make the Northern Lights visible to curious onlookers in New York this Thursday night. It could possibly be seen in the north of the state, but not in the city.
In Maine, Montana y Washington, they could also see the lights.
The event is even more exciting for New Yorkers, as the most popular travel destinations to see the aurora (Iceland, Finland and Sweden) are currently banned due to the coronavirus pandemic.
When will be the best time to see the Northern Lights?
According to details from the portal, the forecast indicates that the skies will clear later on Thursday. The winds will be light and the temperatures will range between 30 and 30 degrees.
If you want to face north and be as far away from artificial light as possible, the best viewing will be after midnight.
After months of rest, the sun recently began a new 11-year cycle of activity. This activity will peak sometime in 2025, But in previous years, solar activity will become more common, increasing the chances of seeing the aurora at lower latitudes.
According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), these solar storms are the source of the Northern Lights.
As detailed by CBS News, NOAA indicates that geomagnetic storm alerts are in effect from December 9-11. Activity is likely to increase as these effects continue.
The aurora often appears so far north and south because solar particles are directed there by Earth’s magnetic field, where they interact with the atmosphere to create an impressive light show.
The Northern Lights often appear as tall rays that look like folds of cloth and sometimes stretch out in arcs, twisting and swaying as if affected by the wind. In the early hours of the morning, they can even appear as clouds.
While this space weather creates a beautiful aurora, it can also disrupt communication systems.
Periods of high solar activity not only generate light shows. Solar flares can also damage power grids and disrupt satellite communications as they head toward Earth.
So don’t be surprised if you notice static while listening to the radio or interruptions in your GPS this week.
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