If the sky is clear, Canadians nationwide can see mesmerizing Northern Light displays tonight and tomorrow night.
Credit: Keith Williams/Flickr /CC BY-NC 2.0 Deed
Space Weather Canada has issued a major geomagnetic storm watch effective from the afternoon of May 10 through the evening of May 11, 2024.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the storm, classified as a G4 on the geomagnetic storm scale, stems from a series of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) that originated from the sun on May 8. The NOAA has not issued such a warning since 2005. CMEs, massive bursts of plasma and magnetic fields from the sun’s corona, can disrupt satellite navigation, and communication systems when they collide with Earth’s magnetic field.
According to NOAA, this severe event may extend the reach of the Northern Lights as far south as Alabama and northern California.
For much of Canada, this event presents a rare opportunity to view the aurora borealis, or Northern Lights, much farther south than typically possible.
The aurora borealis illuminate the northern skies with vibrant displays which form when the Sun emits charged particles, which Earth’s magnetic field, acting as a shield, redirects. The field lines, stretched and snapped back by the solar wind, propel these particles towards Earth. Colliding with atmospheric gases, they create luminous bursts akin to neon lights, resulting in the mesmerizing dance of colours across the sky.
When & How to See:
When:
Space Weather Canada‘s current major geomagnetic storm watch is in effect until May 11, 19:00 EDT.
NOAA predicts the maximum geomagnetic activity between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. CT.
According to the Weather Network, Canadians can see strong Aurora around 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. Eastern Time, provided the sky is clear.
Where & How to See:
Weather Network says Eastern regions like St. John’s and Halifax might miss out due to cloud cover. However, clear skies over much of Quebec and southern Ontario, away from urban lights, enhance viewing prospects. Those in Western Canada, from the Prairies to British Columbia, can also anticipate good conditions.
To enjoy a clear view of Nothern Lights, you should choose a location free of light pollution. The relentless glow from city lights often masks the subtle luminance of low-intensity auroras, rendering them invisible against the urban backdrop.
To find reasonably dark areas near your location, check the Darkskyfinder map. Search for a park (or a safe place with no streetlights away from roads/traffic) within the areas coloured dark (mustard), yellow, green, blue, grey or black (transparent). Before travelling, please check the cloud cover.
Per NOAA’s prediction, Aurora will also be visible tomorrow night.