Aurora Expected to Paint the Skies This Week
G1-Class Geomagnetic Storm Expected Wednesday
Solar Flare Erupts from the Sun, Unleashing a Stream of Charged Particles
People in the northern United States are expected to see the first auroras of the fall season this week as the sun unleashes a stream of charged particles that interact with the Earth's magnetic field.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a G1-class geomagnetic storm watch for Wednesday, October 12, 2023.
A G1-class storm is the weakest level of geomagnetic storm, and it is unlikely to cause any widespread power outages or other disruptions. However, it can cause problems for some sensitive electronic systems, such as satellites and communications networks.
The storm is expected to begin on Wednesday afternoon and last for about 24 hours.
What Causes Auroras?
Auroras are caused by the interaction of charged particles from the sun with the Earth's magnetic field.
When the charged particles reach the Earth's atmosphere, they collide with atoms and molecules, causing them to emit light.
The color of the aurora depends on the type of atom or molecule that is excited.
Where Can You See Auroras?
Auroras are most commonly seen in the northern and southern polar regions.
However, they can sometimes be seen at lower latitudes during strong geomagnetic storms.
In the United States, the best places to see auroras are in Alaska, northern Minnesota, and northern Maine.
How to Stay Safe When Watching Auroras
If you are planning to watch auroras, there are a few things you can do to stay safe.
- Avoid driving in areas where there is heavy snow or ice.
- Dress warmly in layers.
- Bring a flashlight and extra batteries.
- Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
For more information on auroras, visit the Space Weather Prediction Center website.
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