Northern Lights Could Be Visible Across 11 US States After Solar Wind Surge

Skywatchers in the United States were alerted on January 27 and January 28 that the aurora borealis may be visible in up to 11 states as a result of increased geomagnetic activity caused by a burst of solar wind, according to forecasts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center. 

Although the expected geomagnetic storm is classified as G1 level, considered minor on NOAA’s five tier scale, conditions are expected to be favorable for aurora viewing farther south than usual. The possible states include Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan and Maine, especially after dark when Earth rotates into the stream of charged particles. 

Experts say that although minor storms do not produce the most dramatic displays, the right combination of clear skies and heightened geomagnetic activity can make the northern lights visible to observers well away from the polar regions. NOAA recommended using real time space weather apps and forecasts to track aurora conditions. 

Photographers hoping to capture the spectacle were advised to use manual settings on cameras or night mode on smartphones with tripods for the best results and to seek out darker rural locations away from city lights. 

While the storm is not expected to disrupt infrastructure, it provides an unusual opportunity for residents in several mid latitude states to witness the natural light show of the aurora borealis.