Topline
More than a dozen states might have a chance to see the northern lights this week, as a geomagnetic storm may pull the phenomenon farther south, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Key Facts
NOAA forecast a Kp index of three on a scale of nine for Tuesday night and a Kp index of five for Wednesday, indicating the aurora borealis will move further from the poles and become brighter.
An uptick in auroral activity is expected late Wednesday, as NOAA anticipates a “minor” or greater geomagnetic storm caused by high-speed winds from a cooler area on the sun’s surface, according to the agency’s three-day forecast.
Electrons from geomagnetic storms and solar winds collide with oxygen and nitrogen in the Earth’s atmosphere, causing them to become “excited” before releasing energy in the form of colorful, swirling lights, according to NOAA.
Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible On Tuesday?
Most of Canada and Alaska will have an opportunity to observe the aurora borealis, and a lesser, yet still possible chance is forecast in parts of Wyoming, North Dakota and northern Minnesota. (See view line below.)
