Northern Lights Delight Southwestern Ontario Due to Solar Activity

The captivating celestial phenomenon known as the aurora borealis has been illuminating the skies over southwestern Ontario, sparking widespread intrigue through vibrant social media posts showcasing green and pink hues above the region. This unusual southern incursion of the northern lights is the result of heightened solar activity, according to expert explanations.

Jan Cami, an astronomer and professor at Western University, attributes this increased auroral presence to the sun’s natural cycle, which experiences a significant escalation in activity approximately every 11 years. “The sun’s activity has definitely increased in the past year,” Cami stated. “It’s actually higher than it’s been in more than 20 years.”

The aurora borealis is generated by solar particles sent towards Earth by coronal mass ejections (CMEs) — massive bursts of solar wind and magnetic fields rising above the solar corona or being released into space. These particles collide with Earth’s magnetic field, creating light displays.

Cami further elaborated, “[The energy] travels a few hundred kilometers a second until it reaches Earth, causing a combination of charged particles to interact with elements in the atmosphere, producing the distinct colors.”

The solar cycle encompasses a period known as ‘solar maximum,’ during which events such as solar flares and CMEs escalate. “We’re approaching the maximum,” Cami indicated. “We may have already reached it, but confirmation will require another eight months due to measurement complexities.”

The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency (NOAA) reported a severe geomagnetic storm on Thursday, elevating the chances of spotting the northern lights in southwestern Ontario. Notably, Craig Levine, a former president of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, acknowledges these displays as being more vibrant than any fireworks show, describing the progression of colors from a mild greenish glow to intense combinations of greens, reds, and oranges.

For those wishing to experience the aurora, Levine and Cami suggest venturing outside city limits for optimal viewing conditions and dressing warmly for cooler temperatures. Patience is advised, alongside managing realistic expectations as forecasts can be somewhat unpredictable.

NOAA advises that the ideal viewing time falls between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. Levine mentions, “Perhaps the best way to enjoy the lights is by sharing the experience with others,” highlighting the unifying nature of this shared natural spectacle.