Summary
People in as many as 17 U.S. states might see the northern lights tonight. This is due to a series of solar events called Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) affecting Earth, according to the NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC). A strong geomagnetic storm may cause these celestial displays and potentially impact electrical grids.
Key Facts
- Up to 17 states in the U.S. could see the northern lights tonight, including parts of Washington, Oregon, and Illinois.
- The forecast comes from the NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.
- A Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) occurs when the sun releases solar material and magnetic fields.
- These CMEs can cause geomagnetic storms, making northern lights visible over large areas.
- A geomagnetic storm of category G4 might affect electrical grids in some states.
- The northern lights have already been visible in some parts of the U.S.
- The SWPC updates the aurora viewer regularly for the latest information.
