After recent geomagnetic activity, the northern lights—also known as the Aurora Borealis—are expected to be visible tonight across parts of the northern United States. The phenomenon, typically confined to polar regions, is shifting southward due to high-speed solar winds and disturbances in Earth’s magnetic field.
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Source: Forbes
Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Cause | Recent geomagnetic storms and solar winds from a cooler region on the Sun |
| Visibility Forecast | Expected Kp index: 3 to 4 (on a scale of 0–9) |
| Highest Activity | Recorded Kp index: 5 (Sunday night to Tuesday night) |
| Time to Watch | Best viewing time: 10 PM – 2 AM (local time) |
| Photography Tips | Use night mode, disable flash, and lower shutter speed (smartphone) |
| Radio Impact | Minor to moderate radio blackouts are possible through Wednesday |
What are Geomagnetic Storms?
A geomagnetic storm, also known as a magnetic storm, is a small disruption of Earth’s magnetic field caused by an explosion of charged particles(plasma) released by the Sun, usually during a solar flare or Coronal Mass Ejection (CME).
Source: Earth.com
How Does a Solar Explosion Occur?
After travelling through space, particles transported by the solar wind could reach Earth in one to three days. When they collide with the Earth's magnetosphere, they compress and distort it. The interaction in the upper atmosphere creates electric currents that disrupt the Earth's magnetic field.
Effects of Geomagnetic Storms:
| Impact Area | Effects |
| Auroras | Brightens and expands auroras (northern/southern lights) |
| Satellites | Can damage electronics and disrupt communication, and GPS signals |
| Power Grids | May induce currents causing voltage instability or blackouts |
| Aviation | High-latitude flights may face communication issues |
| Navigation Systems | GPS and radio signals can become inaccurate |
States With Possible Aurora Visibility
As per Forbes, if weather and light pollution conditions are favourable, residents in the following areas could glimpse the aurora:
| State/Region |
| Northeastern Washington |
| Northern Idaho |
| Northern Montana |
| North Dakota |
| Northern Minnesota |
| Upper Peninsula of Michigan |
| Northern Wisconsin |
| Parts of Maine |
Note: Alaska and northern Canada have the highest chance of clear visibility.
Background in Science
When charged particles from the Sun contact the Earth's upper atmosphere, auroras are created. Glistening light displays are the result of this energy's excitation of nitrogen and oxygen molecules.
In October 2024, the Sun experienced a "solar maximum", which increased the frequency of auroras.
It is anticipated that this high would last until the beginning of 2026.
A historic geomagnetic storm in May 2024 drove auroras as far south as Florida and Texas.
Conclusion
The recent geomagnetic storms have pushed the dazzling Aurora Borealis farther south, offering a rare visual treat to 8 U.S. states. Driven by solar winds and a disturbed magnetosphere, this phenomenon reflects nature’s raw energy. Witness Earth’s magnetic dance—where science, beauty, and cosmic forces collide.
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