NEW YORK — Northern lights could grace several northern U.S. states for New Year’s Eve, thanks to anticipated solar storms.
The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports that two solar plasma bursts are en route to Earth, with an expected arrival early this week.
These bursts could trigger vibrant auroras on Monday and Tuesday nights in Alaska, Washington, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine. Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, Iowa, and New York might also offer partial viewing opportunities.
According to NOAA space weather forecaster Shawn Dahl, the best viewing chance will be during the early morning hours on Tuesday while it’s still dark.
For updated forecasts, check forecasts as the event approaches or use an aurora forecasting app.
To witness this spectacle, find a location with clear, dark skies, ideally away from city lights. Smartphone cameras can sometimes capture auroral details invisible to the naked eye.
The sun is currently at the peak of its 11-year cycle, increasing the frequency of solar activity and northern lights displays.
This active solar period is predicted to continue for at least another year; however, the exact peak will only be determined months later.
NOAA is monitoring this week’s solar storms for potential minor disruptions to high-frequency radio communications used by airlines and amateur radio operators.
In May, NOAA issued a rare severe geomagnetic storm warning—the strongest in over two decades—resulting in spectacular light displays across the Northern Hemisphere. October also saw a powerful solar storm creating auroras in unexpected locations, including Germany, the United Kingdom, New England, and New York City.
