This Thanksgiving, skywatchers in the northern rim of the United States may be treated to a celestial spectacle as solar storms are predicted to produce faint auroras across several states. According to NOAA meteorologist Mike Bettwy, pale auroras may be visible in many northern states on Thursday and Friday, contingent upon the intensity of the solar storms.
Prime locations for potential aurora sightings include Washington, Montana, the Dakotas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Maine. Additionally, northern parts of Idaho, Wyoming, New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire may also have the opportunity to witness these natural light displays.
To catch a glimpse of the auroras, observers are advised to wait for clear, dark skies and head outside, preferably away from bright city lights. Smartphone cameras may capture subtle auroral hints that are not easily visible to the naked eye.
The current phase of the sun's 11-year cycle is at its maximum, leading to more frequent solar surges and northern lights. Earlier this week, a burst of high-energy plasma was ejected from the sun towards Earth, contributing to the heightened solar activity.
While the active period is expected to continue for at least another year, the peak of solar activity will only be determined months after the fact by NASA and NOAA scientists. Despite this week's solar storm, experts do not anticipate significant communication disruptions.
In a rare event in May, NOAA issued a severe geomagnetic storm warning, the most potent storm in over two decades, resulting in stunning light displays across the Northern Hemisphere. Last month, an impressive solar storm surprised skygazers in unexpected locations such as Germany, the United Kingdom, New England, and even New York City with dazzling auroras.
As the sun continues its active phase, enthusiasts and stargazers are encouraged to keep an eye on the skies for potential aurora sightings, especially in the specified northern states.
