A high-speed stream of photo voltaic wind is predicted to comb previous Earth tonight (March 13), probably triggering minor (G1) geomagnetic storm circumstances in line with NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.
Forecasters say storm exercise is more than likely March 13-14, with elevated geomagnetic circumstances presumably lingering into March 15 because the quick solar wind stream continues to buffet Earth’s magnetic field.
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Where can I see the northern lights tonight?
Based on the latest NOAA aurora forecast map, the next 9 U.S. states seem totally or partially above the doable aurora view line:
- Alaska
- North Dakota
- Minnesota
- Montana
- South Dakota
- Wisconsin
- Idaho
- Washington
- Maine
But bear in mind, auroras can be troublesome. The record is predicated on present forecast knowledge at time of publication, but when circumstances strengthen, northern lights may attain a lot farther south than anticipated. Equally, if circumstances do not align, we may find yourself with no auroras in any respect.
Northern Hemisphere aurora forecast courtesy of the U.Okay. Met Office
When is the very best time to search for the northern lights tonight?
If the skies are clear, you possibly can look out for the northern lights as quickly because it will get darkish, as geomagnetic exercise is forecast to develop into elevated round 11 a.m. EDT (1500 GMT) and stay elevated into the night time.
According to NOAA’s 3-day forecast, doable geomagnetic storm exercise is predicted to be greatest on the following occasions:
EDT | GMT | Activity |
|---|---|---|
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. | 1500-1800 | Minor (G1) geomagnetic storming doable |
8 p.m. – 11 p.m. | 0000-0300 (March 14) | Minor (G1) geomagnetic storming doable |
How can I see the northern lights from the place I stay?
If you are in one of many 9 U.S. states the place auroras may make an look tonight, somewhat planning can go a good distance towards enhancing your possibilities of seeing them.
- Start by discovering a location with an unobstructed view north, ideally somebody darkish and nicely away from metropolis lights. The clearer your view of the northern horizon, the higher.
- When you are arrange, begin scanning the sky along with your cellphone’s digicam, as they’re normally good at choosing up faint auroral glows that are not instantly apparent to the bare eye. This helps you establish the place exercise may be beginning and the place you need to be focusing most of your consideration.
- Dark adaptation is essential and infrequently neglected when aurora chasing. If you possibly can, give your eyes at the very least half-hour to completely alter to the darkish so you possibly can higher detect refined auroral options. Keeping in thoughts that even a fast look at a vibrant gentle or a cellphone display screen can reset the method, forcing you to start out over.
- Dress for the event. Aurora reveals can be unpredictable and if circumstances look promising, you may end up standing exterior for some time. Make positive to put on loads of heat layers!
We suggest downloading an area climate app that gives aurora forecasts based mostly in your location. One choice I take advantage of is “My Aurora Forecast & Alerts,” obtainable for each iOS and Android. However, any related app ought to work nicely. I additionally use the “Space Weather Live” app, which is available on iOS and (*13*), to get a deeper understanding of whether or not the present space weather circumstances are favorable for aurora sightings.
Want to seize the right northern lights picture? Our how to photograph auroras guide might help.
Editor’s Note: If you snap a photograph of the northern or southern lights and wish to share it with Space.com’s readers, ship your picture(s), feedback, and your title and site to spacephotos@house.com.
