It is an exciting time for Aurora enthusiasts here in the United States! A powerful “G3” level geomagnetic storm is expected to hit Earth tonight. The Space Weather Prediction Center, a branch of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), has issued a G2 geomagnetic storm watch. Look for it Tuesday, March 25, at about 7 a.m. Eastern time. A large “coronal hole” on the sun is currently facing Earth. It’s responsible for an exciting phenomenon. Breathtaking Northern Lights might be seen as far south as New York and Idaho!
A geomagnetic storm is rated on a 5-point severity scale, with G2 representing a moderate severity level. This aurora activity is only beginning, fueled by solar wind from the coronal hole on sun. As these solar winds collide with Earth's atmosphere, charged particles are sent shooting toward the planet's poles. These great balls of gas charge up atmospheric molecules, which release their energy as beautiful auroras.
"Watches of this level are not uncommon," stated NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center.
To witness a spectacular aurora show, seek out a dark, clear sky. Try to shoot for the window of about 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., and escape from urban lighting. If you live in northern and upper Midwest states—from New York to Idaho—you have an opportunity to see this natural wonder tonight.
"The aurora may become visible over some northern and upper Midwest states from New York to Idaho," according to NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center.
It’s happening in the midst of solar maximum, the most intense phase of the sun’s 11-year cycle. Our prolonged glow of solar activity should last for several more months, providing more opportunities to see the Northern Lights. These auroras mesmerize us with that spectacular imagery. They have effects here on Earth, disrupting the orbits of spacecraft and creating small variations in the voltage of power grids located at high latitudes.
