The night sky over North America could offer a dazzling spectacle this Saturday night. According to the latest NOAA forecast, six U.S. states have chances of spotting auroras, also known as Northern Lights.
Although the predicted geomagnetic activity is relatively low, atmospheric and solar conditions will allow the phenomenon to be visible in areas of the northern part of the country. Specifically, the states with the highest likelihood of sightings, according to the map published by NOAA, are Alaska, Washington, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Michigan. Therefore, these places will be the best to sit and enjoy the sky.
That is, as long as sky conditions are favorable, meaning clear skies and low light pollution. NOAA's forecast indicates a G index of zero (on a scale from zero to five), which means no significant geomagnetic storm is expected. However, northern regions still have the chance to experience the phenomenon due to their proximity to the magnetic pole.
Areas with the highest likelihood of sightings
The map visualization also shows a color scale indicating the likelihood of sightings, from low probability to high. The highest concentration of color is observed over northern Canada and parts of Alaska. But the northern continental U.S. states are within the green area, suggesting a real possibility of seeing the auroras.
Auroras occur when solar particles collide with the atmosphere, creating dancing lights in the sky, usually green, but they can include shades of red, purple, and blue. Although they are more common in Arctic latitudes, special events or suitable conditions can make them visible further south. For residents in these areas, it is recommended to move away from cities and seek dark, open areas.
One of nature's best spectacles
Likewise, look north shortly after nightfall. If weather conditions permit, they could enjoy one of the most impressive natural spectacles on the planet. The sky is covered in magic, and it's only necessary to sit and let yourself be carried away.