The northern lights could placed on one other present throughout the U.S. tonight as speedy photo voltaic wind from an Earth-facing coronal gap is forecast to spark minor (G1) geomagnetic storm situations, based on the Nationwide Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Area Climate Prediction Middle.
Geomagnetic exercise is predicted to achieve minor (G1) storm ranges in a single day, which may very well be excellent news for aurora chasers because it raises the prospect of seeing the northern lights in mid-latitudes.
Where can I see the northern lights tonight?
States that could see auroras tonight
Based on the latest NOAA aurora forecast map, the next 10 U.S. states seem absolutely or partially above the aurora view line:
- Alaska
- Washington
- North Dakota
- Minnesota
- Montana
- Maine
- Michigan
- Wisconsin
- South Dakota
- Idaho
Keep in mind, auroras may be fickle creatures. The record relies on present forecast knowledge, but when situations strengthen and skies are clear, auroras may attain a lot farther south than anticipated.
Then once more, if situations do not align, we would find yourself with a “nothing burger” and no auroras in any respect.
Northern Hemisphere aurora forecast courtesy of the U.K. Met Office
What time should I look for the northern lights tonight?
The northern lights could be visible across 10 U.S. states tonight (Dec. 22-23) as soon as it gets dark, so it’s worth keeping an eye on the sky throughout the evening, especially in areas with clear, dark skies.
According to NOAA’s 3-day forecast, geomagnetic storm exercise is predicted to be finest on the following instances:
- 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. EST (2100-0300 GMT): Minor G1 stage storming potential
How can I see the northern lights from the place I dwell?
In case you dwell in one of many 10 U.S. states forecasted to catch a glimpse of the northern lights tonight, there are some things you are able to do to present your self one of the best likelihood of seeing them.
- Discover a north-facing vantage level with a transparent view of the northern horizon, as removed from mild air pollution as potential.
- Use your telephone digital camera to scan the sky, as a telephone digital camera is nice at choosing up faint auroras earlier than your eyes spot them. This gives you a good suggestion of which route to focus your consideration.
- Attempt to let your eyes adapt to the darkish for not less than half-hour; this may assist your evening imaginative and prescient develop.
- Put on heat clothes! A part of the enjoyable of aurora searching is the chase. Be ready to sit down or stand for hours if situations are wanting promising, as you will not wish to miss the present when it begins!
We suggest downloading an area climate app that gives aurora forecasts based mostly in your location. One possibility I take advantage of is “My Aurora Forecast & Alerts,” out there for each iOS and Android. Nevertheless, any comparable app ought to work properly.
I additionally use the “Area Climate Reside” app, which is out there on iOS and Android, to get a deeper understanding of whether or not the present house climate situations are favorable for aurora sightings. Need to seize the proper picture? Our how one can {photograph} auroras information may help.
