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Saturday, June 1, 2024

The Northern Lights Could Appear Over Parts of the US Friday Night: Where to Watch for Auroras

The Northern Lights Could Appear Over Parts of the US Friday Night: Where to Watch for Auroras

Get ready to witness the breathtaking beauty of the aurora borealis! A geomagnetic storm is forecasted to bring the northern lights to parts of the United States this Friday night, and we've got the scoop on where to watch for these spectacular displays.

Geomagnetic Storm Forecast

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a geomagnetic storm watch, predicting a moderate-level event that could cause aurora activity to be visible as far south as the northern states. This rare occurrence is due to a high-speed solar wind stream interacting with Earth's magnetic field.

Where to Watch for Auroras

While the northern lights can be seen in the northernmost states, such as Alaska, Canada, and Norway, this rare event may allow us to witness the spectacle in parts of the US. Here are some prime locations to spot the auroras:

  1. Minnesota: The state's northern lights festival, Aurora Expeditions, recommends viewing areas in Ely, Grand Marais, and Lake Superior.
  2. Wisconsin: Head to the Door Peninsula, where you can spot auroras from cities like Green Bay, Door County, and Madison.
  3. Michigan: Look for viewing areas in Upper Peninsula cities like Marquette, Houghton, and Copper Harbor.
  4. New York: The Adirondacks and North Country regions offer potential viewing spots.
  5. Oregon: The northern part of the state, including cities like Astoria and Seaside, may be able to see auroras.

Tips for Viewing Auroras

To maximize your chances of spotting the northern lights:

  • Find a dark location with minimal light pollution.
  • Dress warmly, as it can get chilly while waiting for and viewing the auroras.
  • Bring a camera with a tripod to capture photos.
  • Be prepared for a late-night viewing session – auroras are most active between midnight and 3 am.
  • Download aurora-viewing apps like Dark Sky or Aurora Forecast to stay updated on activity levels.

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Leave Your Thoughts Below

Have you witnessed the northern lights before? Share your favorite aurora-viewing experiences or tips for spotting these natural wonders in the comments below.

By exploring the forecasted geomagnetic storm and prime locations for viewing auroras, we can get ready to experience this breathtaking phenomenon. Share your thoughts below and let's continue the conversation!

 

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