Key Highlights
- Northern lights may be visible in 10 US states tonight due to ongoing geomagnetic storm conditions.
- A CME launched by an M7.4 solar flare on Nov. 5 is expected to increase solar wind speed and magnetic field strength, contributing to the display.
- NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center has a G3-G2 storm watch in place for Nov. 7 and Nov. 8 as Earth experiences continued impacts from multiple CMEs and fast solar wind streams.
- The northern lights are highly unpredictable; clear skies, minimal light pollution, and a north-facing view are necessary to catch the display.
Forecasting the Aurora Display
Auroras may be visible in 10 US states tonight as geomagnetic storm conditions are predicted to continue. The auroral displays can be seen from Alaska to Michigan, with a G3 (Strong) geomagnetic storm watch in effect until Nov. 8.
Driving Forces Behind the Aurora
The ongoing geomagnetic storm is being driven by a CME launched on November 5, which had been traveling at speeds of 1,100 to 1,400 km/s (2.5–3.1 million mph) and arrived at Earth early on Nov. 7 UTC. This has sharply increased solar wind speed and magnetic field strength.
Expert Insights
Aurora chaser Jure Atanackov provided insight into the current conditions, noting that “If it manages to stabilize at strongly negative values for some time, then we will see a rapid increase in geomagnetic activity.”
Viewing Conditions and Tips
To catch the northern lights display, viewers should head to dark locations far from city lights and light pollution. A north-facing view with a clear horizon is recommended, as well as keeping an eye on the skies starting around midnight local time.
Technical Assistance for Viewers
We recommend downloading a space weather app that provides aurora forecasts based on your location. Options include “My Aurora Forecast & Alerts,” available for both iOS and Android, or “Space Weather Live,” also available on iOS and Android.
Potential for Continued Activity
NOAA’s G3-G2 storm watch is in place for Nov. 7 and Nov. 8 as Earth experiences continued impacts from multiple CMEs and a fast solar wind stream from a coronal hole. The U.K. Met Office warns that elevated geomagnetic activity could continue into the weekend, especially if additional CMEs are launched in Earth’s direction.
The northern lights may be visible in 10 US states tonight due to ongoing geomagnetic storm conditions.
If you’re an aurora enthusiast, keep your camera batteries charged; the show may not be over just yet. Stay tuned for updates as more solar material is expected to arrive through Nov. 8.
