GREENSBORO, N.C. —
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UPDATE: You may be able to see the Northern Lights Saturday.
The northern lights can be tough to see in North Carolina, but every now and then, we have a chance! Friday night may be one of those chances.
A strong geomagnetic storm is ongoing and it may be strong enough to make the northern lights visible farther to the south than normal. This won't be a big deal for most people in the northern U.S., but it's noteworthy that the Aurora may be able to be seen farther south than it typically would be.
Several strong solar flares have been noted over the last several days with additional solar activity expected through Friday night into Saturday morning. This is what's considered a G4 Geomagnetic storm or a severe geomagnetic storm. There was one of similar strength back in March of this year, but it occurred during the daytime, making it impossible to catch a glimpse of the northern lights glow.
The last storm stronger than that, was a G5 storm back in October of 2003 and even disrupted power in Sweden and South Africa.
NORTHERN LIGHTS ARE RARE FOR NC, BUT...
If this storm is as strong as predicted, you may be able to catch a glimpse of the glow from the northern lights in our area Friday night, but undoubtedly, the better opportunity will be further to the north. For North Carolina, it's rare to see the northern lights, and still not super likely tonight, but there are some ways to help improve your chances of seeing it.
BEST TIME FOR VIEWING
The best time for viewing will come in the darkest time of the night, from basically midnight until dawn on Saturday morning.
WHERE SHOULD I LOOK?
Get away from lights! Find a dark spot with no light pollution. The best idea is to drive out and away from the city, and find an open spot without many trees where you have a clear view of the dark night sky.
EXPLAINING AURORA VISIBILITY AND THE KP INDEX
The strength of these storms in Earth's magnetic field is often measured using the Kp Index, or Planetary K-index. Tonight, the Kp may reach up to an 8 or 9, which would be enough strength for the Aurora to reach North Carolina, but it isn't guaranteed, and specific timing for this is all over the place.
Bottom line, try your luck! But, remember, this won't be a postcard view of the Northern Lights, but more of a faint glow. You'll have a better opportunity with a long exposure camera lens and plenty of patience!