People living in 15 American states might enjoy a spectacular display of the northern lights starting this evening and continuing through the week. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicates that approaching coronal mass ejections could trigger geomagnetic storms, making the auroras visible across wide areas.
Experts predict heightened geomagnetic conditions and auroral sightings from November 10 to November 12 in locations including New York, Minnesota, Iowa, and Alaska, as well as additional regions. These effects stem from three coronal mass ejections that originated on November 7.
The most recent NOAA aurora prediction chart highlights that 15 states lie entirely or partly within the visibility zone. Predictions in this field are not precise, meaning individuals outside this zone might still catch a view of the phenomenon. Since auroras can vary greatly, the spectacle could turn out to be less vivid than hoped, requiring specific atmospheric factors to come together for optimal viewing.
For those intending to observe the lights this evening, consider these suggestions: seek out a location oriented toward the north with an unobstructed horizon. To minimize interference, venture far from urban areas plagued by artificial lighting. Employ a smartphone's camera to survey the sky, as it often detects subtle glows that the human eye might miss initially, guiding where to direct your gaze.
The previous major and extensive aurora occurrence across the United States happened during the prior year, featuring a geomagnetic disturbance among the most intense in the last 20 years. The current week's events are not expected to match that level of intensity.