Northern Lights Illuminate US Skies Amid Powerful Geomagnetic Storm
A strong geomagnetic storm captivated residents across the United States, allowing them to witness the beautiful northern lights. This event mainly occurred late Tuesday into early Wednesday, impacting several states with a vibrant display. Experts predict additional auroral activity may be visible on Wednesday night.
Northern Lights Across the US
The aurora borealis, commonly referred to as the northern lights, was spotted in over a dozen states. These states included:
- New York
- Washington
- Texas
- Oklahoma
- Tennessee
- Nevada
- Massachusetts
- Georgia
- Alabama
- Montana
- Alaska
- Wyoming
- California
- Louisiana
- New Mexico
- Florida
- South Carolina
- North Carolina
- Nebraska
- Iowa
- Idaho
- South Dakota
Social media was ablaze with photos showcasing the stunning colors of the aurora. The phenomena occur when charged solar particles collide with Earth’s upper atmosphere gases, creating this breathtaking visual spectacle.
Geomagnetic Storm Details
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) issued a severe G4 geomagnetic storm watch for November 11 and 12, representing the second highest rating on their scale. This storm was the result of fast-moving coronal mass ejections (CMEs) emitted from the sun.
Forecaster Shawn Dahl reported that these CMEs reached Earth with a force greater than expected. Dahl commented on the intensity, noting that the magnetic pressure of the arriving CMEs was eight times stronger than normal conditions. Currently, G3 conditions were observed as of Wednesday morning.
Upcoming Potential for More Northern Lights
Forecasters anticipate a third CME expected to arrive around midday Eastern Time, which is forecasted to be the most powerful of the three. Meteorologist Marc Chenard indicated that, barring cloud cover, the northern lights could reappear Wednesday night.
This geomagnetic storm presents a unique opportunity for many Americans to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the northern lights, and conditions may remain favorable for continued activity.
