Geomagnetic storm could spark northern lights as far south as Michigan and Maine May 15-17
Space • • science
Key Points:
- A fast stream of solar wind from a large coronal hole on the sun is expected to cause geomagnetic storms from May 15 to May 17, potentially producing northern lights visible as far south as northern Michigan and Maine.
- The strongest geomagnetic activity is forecasted between 11 p.m. and 2 a.m. EDT, with NOAA predicting minor (G1) geomagnetic storm conditions that could last into May 17.
- During these storms, auroras may be visible farther south than usual across northern U.S. states including Alaska, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Maine.
- Aurora visibility depends on factors like cloud cover, darkness, and Earth's magnetic field response, so sightings are not guaranteed even during strong storms.
- To increase chances of seeing the northern lights, observers should find dark locations away from city lights and look north after dark; smartphone cameras can help capture faint auroras.