Northern lights are forecast to be visible from August 18 to 20 across various northern states including New York, Maine, and Michigan. The phenomenon is attributed to minor geomagnetic storms caused by solar wind from a coronal hole on the sun. Ideal viewing conditions occur after sunset or before sunrise, particularly between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m., as the moon rises later, allowing for darker skies. The NOAA anticipates an increase in solar activity leading into 2025-2026 due to an 11-year solar cycle peak.
Minor geomagnetic storms forecasted from August 18 to 20 could allow for spectacular displays of the northern lights across a dozen northern states, including New York and Maine.
These storms, driven by solar wind from a coronal hole on the sun, create beautiful auroras visible best after sunset or before sunrise.
The optimal viewing time for the northern lights is between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m., when less moonlight enhances visibility of colorful light shows.
The NOAA indicates that solar activity will remain high through 2025 and 2026 due to an 11-year sun cycle peaking through October.
Collection
[
|
...
]