NOAA Issues Geomagnetic Storm Watch: Northern Lights Forecast for Parts of the U.S.
The mesmerizing phenomenon of the Northern Lights, also known as aurora borealis, is set to grace the skies of certain parts of the United States. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a Geomagnetic Storm Watch for Monday and Tuesday, indicating the possibility of this breathtaking natural light display.
According to NOAA Space Weather, a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) was observed on January 20th, lifting off from the Sun. As a result, a moderate geomagnetic storm is expected to occur on January 22nd and 23rd. This announcement has sparked excitement among sky gazers and aurora enthusiasts across the country.
So, what exactly is a geomagnetic storm? It occurs when solar flares trigger CMEs, launching charged particles into space. These particles then interact with Earth’s magnetic field, transferring energy into the upper atmosphere. As a result, the gas molecules in the atmosphere become energized and emit light as they de-energize, creating the stunning display of the Northern Lights.
The Space Weather Prediction Center has forecasted moderate auroras from 4 p.m. on Monday to 1 p.m. on Tuesday Eastern time. The peak energy is expected to hit our atmosphere on Tuesday morning, between 1 a.m. and 4 a.m. Eastern time, producing a moderate to active aurora.
However, not all areas will have the opportunity to witness this celestial spectacle. The view line, stretching from Seattle to southern Iowa and from the northern half of New York to northern New England, is where the Northern Lights can be seen. Unfortunately, a storm approaching from the West Coast and another one moving through the center of the country will create widespread cloud cover, obscuring the view for many cities.
Nonetheless, there are still some cities that may have a chance to catch a glimpse of the aurora if the clouds cooperate. Aberdeen, South Dakota; Sioux City, Iowa; Dickinson, North Dakota; Glasgow, Montana; Marquette, Michigan; Watertown, New York; Burlington, Vermont; Conway, New Hampshire; and Augusta, Maine, are among the locations that could potentially witness this ethereal phenomenon.
It is important to note that the forecast for cloud cover in these areas is subject to change. Therefore, it is advisable for those interested in witnessing the Northern Lights to keep an eye on the weather updates and check the forecast for their specific city.
While the Northern Lights offer a breathtaking visual experience, they also have the potential to disrupt certain technological systems. Solar flares and geomagnetic storms can interfere with our electric grid, GPS, and radio waves. The geomagnetic storm expected during this event is categorized as minor to moderate, which means there is a 50% chance of minor to moderate radio blackouts and a 10% chance of strong radio blackouts.
This upcoming display of the Northern Lights aligns with NOAA’s prediction of a stronger peak in solar activity in 2024. As the current solar cycle ramps up and reaches its peak in 2024, it is anticipated that auroras will become more frequent in the United States, providing more opportunities for sky gazers to witness this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon.
So, if you find yourself in one of the fortunate cities within the view line and the clouds part ways, be sure to step outside and look up at the night sky. The Northern Lights are a reminder of the wonders of our universe and offer a truly magical experience for those lucky enough to witness them.
