Northern Lights Alert Issued for 17 States After Double Solar Eruption

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued an upgraded alert for potential Northern Lights displays across 17 U.S. states following a double eruption on the sun. The strong G3 geomagnetic storm is expected to hit on April 16, allowing auroras to be visible at lower latitudes, possibly as far south as 45 degrees.

The recent solar activity, spurred by multiple coronal mass ejections (CMEs), is contributing to the possibility of auroras in northern states throughout the week. The storm is classified as G2 on April 15, setting the stage for the G3 upgrade. Observers can anticipate a spectacle in areas stretching from Alaska to parts of the Midwest and Northeast U.S.

According to NOAA, a G2 storm indicates that auroral action may be visible in states including Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan and parts of New England. In contrast, the most powerful storm recorded, classified as G5, occurred on May 10, 2024, allowing sightings in Florida and other southern states.

On April 15, states except for Atlantic Canada are predicted to experience a high likelihood of seeing the auroras, which may extend across the northern horizon. Forecasters estimate that the Kp index could reach up to 6, allowing for bright displays and potential sightings even from the northern edges of the continental U.S.

The CMEs, clouds of supercharged particles from the sun, are expected to arrive soon, causing disturbances in Earth’s magnetic field. “The CMEs are expected to reach Earth on April 16, creating a one-two punch that sparks G2-class geomagnetic storms,” NOAA representatives stated. Additional monitoring of real-time data from NASA’s DSCOVR and ACE satellites will provide a timely warning of when the auroras will emerge.

The Northern Lights result from interactions between the solar wind and the Earth’s magnetic field, producing the spectacular light displays observed at night. Over the past weekend, solar activity surged, resulting in eight M-rated solar flares, intense bursts of electromagnetic energy. Interestingly, these solar flares were not linked to traditional sunspots but originated from two magnetic filaments that detached from the sun.

As excitement grows for the upcoming displays, space weather enthusiasts are encouraged to find viewing locations away from light pollution to increase the chances of witnessing the auroras. Observers can stay updated on alerts from NOAA for real-time information on the geomagnetic storms and auroral visibility.

Wishing all clear skies and wide eyes as we embark on this atmospheric phenomenon.