According to forecasters, an upcoming solar storm is anticipated to enable the viewing of the Northern Lights in 17 U.S. states on Thursday.
The Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska in Fairbanks predicts that the enchanting aurora borealis phenomenon will be observable in states located farther south than usual. Typically, the mesmerizing spectacle is confined to Alaska, Canada, and Scandinavia in the northern regions. However, the forecasters suggest that on Thursday, the lights might grace states as far south as Indiana and Maryland.
The forecasters specify that the displays will be visible in Alaska, Washington, Montana, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Vermont, North Dakota, South Dakota, New York, New Hampshire, and Maine.
In Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, Indiana, and Maryland, the lights will be visible “low on the horizon,” as stated by the forecasters.
The Space Weather Prediction Center says the prime viewing time is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time.
These aurora borealis lights manifest when a magnetic solar wind collides with the Earth’s magnetic field. Their visibility in the more southern states can be attributed to the nearing of an anticipated peak in the 11-year solar cycle, expected to occur in 2024.
News by Breaking911
