Northern lights could be visible as far south as Illinois and Oregon tonight
Space • • general
Key Points:
- A surge of fast solar wind traveling at speeds up to 430 miles per second is approaching Earth, potentially triggering geomagnetic storms on April 17 and 18, according to NOAA and the U.K. Met Office.
- NOAA has issued a moderate (G2) geomagnetic storm watch, with the U.K. Met Office warning of possible strong (G3) storms that could push the northern lights much farther south, making them visible as far south as Illinois and Oregon.
- Auroras occur when charged particles from solar wind interact with Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere, producing colorful light displays; stronger solar winds result in more widespread and dynamic auroras.
- To view the northern lights, observers should find a north-facing, dark location with minimal light pollution, allow their eyes to adjust to the dark, and consider using smartphone cameras and aurora forecast apps for better visibility.
- Additionally, the Lyrid meteor shower is active from April 16 to 25, peaking on April 22, offering another celestial event to watch for during nighttime sky observations.
