Time: 2024-08-14
A significant Geomagnetic storm generated by recent Solar flares is expected to produce a stunning display of the Northern Lights across several U.S. states on Tuesday night . The Kp index for the aurora borealis is at four , indicating increased brightness and activity further from the poles . This follows a powerful G4 geomagnetic storm observed on Monday that produced some of the strongest Northern Lights seen since May , coinciding with the peak of the Perseid meteor shower . Solar activity has been unusually high in recent months as the sun 's 11 - year solar cycle approaches its anticipated peak in the coming years.
The solar ejections responsible for the geomagnetic storm began reaching Earth over the weekend , with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicting continued auroral activity until Tuesday . While Canada and Alaska may have the best visibility for the Northern Lights , several continental U.S. states including Washington , Oregon , Idaho , Montana , and Michigan , are also within the auroras view line . To witness the best display , experts recommend traveling away from city lights and finding a vantage point to view the lights between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.
Additionally , the recent increase in solar activity is attributed to Solar Cycle 25 , which NASA predicts will continue into the next year . The cycle began in December 2019 and is projected to reach its peak between late 2024 and early 2026 . Recent predictions by NO indicate a significant increase in sunspots , with a maximum of 115 expected during the peak of the cycle . This surge in solar activity has resulted in a higher number of geomagnetic storms and Northern Lights sightings in recent months.
The geomagnetic storms observed in recent days were triggered by solar flares and coronal mass ejections expelled by the sun . These charged solar particles interact with Earth 's magnetic field to produce the stunning auroras seen in the sky . The recent series of solar flares and geomagnetic storms have created ideal conditions for viewing the Northern Lights , coinciding with the peak of the annual Perseid meteor shower . Stargazers across North America have a unique opportunity to witness this celestial spectacle and capture stunning photos of the auroras dancing in the night sky.
Business
