Northern Lights Expected to Shine Across Canada Tonight Thanks to Geomagnetic Storm
Residents of southwestern Ontario have been treated to stunning displays of the northern lights this year, with many sharing vibrant photos of green and pink hues lighting up the night sky. This surge in auroral activity is tied to the sun’s natural cycle, which reaches a peak every 11 years.
What is a Geomagnetic Storm?
A geomagnetic storm is a disturbance in Earth’s magnetic field caused by solar activity like solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs). These events send a stream of charged particles towards Earth, which interact with our atmosphere and create the mesmerizing aurora borealis.
Solar Maximum and Auroral Activity
According to Jan Cami, a professor at Western University and director of the Hume Cronyn Observatory, the sun is currently nearing its solar maximum. This phase of heightened solar activity leads to events such as solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs), where charged particles are flung toward Earth. When these particles collide with Earth’s magnetic field, they produce the stunning northern lights.
Cami noted, “The sun’s activity has increased significantly over the past year. It’s actually the highest it’s been in more than 20 years.”
Geomagnetic Storm Boosts Visibility
On Thursday, the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported a severe geomagnetic storm underway, rated at G4. This storm has increased the chances of seeing the aurora borealis across Ontario. NOAA’s aurora forecast dashboard suggests the best viewing times between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m..
Tips for Viewing the Aurora Borealis
For those hoping to witness the lights, experts advise finding a location far from city lights. Amateur astronomer Craig Levine suggests looking to the north, where the first signs often appear as a greenish glow. He notes that the colours gradually intensify, with reds and oranges sometimes joining the mix.
The northern lights aren’t just a scientific phenomenon. Levine emphasizes the shared experience they offer, saying, “We all share the night sky, and that’s a wonderful thing that brings people together.”
The storm is expected to peak around nightfall on Thursday, October 10th, and could last for roughly 12 hours. While the aurora is typically visible in northern latitudes, this strong storm may make it visible further south.
To increase your chances of seeing the northern lights:
- Find a dark location: Escape city lights and find an area with an unobstructed view of the northern horizon.
- Be patient: The aurora can be unpredictable, so give yourself plenty of time to observe the sky.
- Check the forecast: The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency (NOAA) provides aurora forecasts on its website.
Impacts of Geomagnetic Storms
While geomagnetic storms create beautiful auroras, they can also disrupt power grids and satellite communications. However, power companies have implemented measures to mitigate these risks since the major 1989 Quebec blackout.
Keep an eye on the sky tonight—the northern lights may put on another spectacular show.
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