What Happened
The aurora borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights, may be visible in at least nine US states due to recent solar activity. The sun has emitted multiple Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) that are traveling towards Earth, enhancing the potential for geomagnetic storms that cause the aurora.
This increased solar activity includes the sun firing off 10 solar flares within a 24-hour period. These events have led to heightened expectations for aurora visibility, particularly around the July 4th holiday weekend.
Forecasting indicates that the conditions are favorable for the Northern Lights to be seen in a wider range of latitudes than usual, with nine states specifically mentioned as having potential viewing opportunities.
Key Facts
- 1
The sun has emitted multiple solar flares and Earth-bound CMEs.
- 2
This solar activity increases the possibility of viewing the aurora borealis.
- 3
Ten solar flares were fired off by the sun in a 24-hour period.
- 4
Northern Lights visibility is hoped for over the July 4th weekend.
- 5
Nine states are expected to have a chance to see the aurora borealis.
