Michelle Foley
Jul 10, 2023 - 09:41

Northern Lights to be visible in multiple US states due to solar storm

Northern Lights to be visible in multiple US states this week.

The awe-inspiring natural phenomenon known as the aurora borealis, or Northern Lights, is a breathtaking display of lights that primarily occurs in the regions of Alaska, Canada, and Scandinavia. However, this week, thanks to a solar storm, the Northern Lights are expected to grace the skies across multiple states in the United States.

If weather conditions permit, the mesmerizing lights will be visible in states ranging from Alaska to Maryland between July 12 and 13. The Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska at Fairbanks predicts that the activity will be at its peak on July 13, providing people with a remarkable opportunity to witness the enchanting aurora borealis in various states including Montana, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, Indiana, Vermont, and Maryland.

On July 12, the display is forecasted to be visible in Alaska, Washington, Iowa, Illinois, Ohio, and Massachusetts. To fully experience the beauty of the Northern Lights, experts recommend venturing away from city lights and seeking out darker areas, as clear and dark skies are essential for optimal visibility.

The best time to witness this natural phenomenon is between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. local time, according to the University of Alaska. NASA explains that solar storms occur when the sun releases bursts of energy known as solar flares and coronal mass ejections. It's like the sun setting off fireworks in space.

The Northern Lights, on the other hand, are the result of charged particles, such as electrons and protons, colliding with the gases in Earth's upper atmosphere. These collisions produce flashes of light that combine to form the mesmerizing auroras that dance across the night sky.

In conclusion, if you find yourself in the right states at the right time, you may have the privilege of witnessing the extraordinary beauty of the Northern Lights. So, grab a blanket, find a spot away from city lights, and prepare to be captivated by the celestial spectacle that nature has to offer.