A powerful geomagnetic storm is on its way to Earth, and it looks like there will be a chance to see the Northern Lights with the naked eye on Thursday in the St. Louis area. The NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a warning for a severe Geomagnetic Storm on Thursday and Friday, which means that the Northern Lights may be visible in various parts of the United States.
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, happen when particles from a solar flare interact with molecules in the Earth’s atmosphere. This spectacular display is best viewed in areas with minimal light pollution. According to the NOAA, a coronal mass ejection directed towards Earth can cause a moderate geomagnetic storm. Many solar flares and coronal mass ejections have the potential to send solar radiation towards Earth, leading to the appearance of the Northern Lights.
Based on the NOAA’s forecasts, a large part of the St. Louis metropolitan area in Missouri and Illinois is expected to witness the Northern Lights. Missouri and Illinois have K indexes ranging from 7 to 9, indicating a strong to extreme likelihood of visibility for the Northern Lights on Thursday if the skies are clear and light pollution is minimal.
If the Northern Lights are visible on Friday night in Missouri and Illinois, the best viewing locations will be away from city lights. Rural areas with no light pollution offer the best chances to witness this natural phenomenon. A short drive north of St. Louis might be an ideal spot for viewing the Northern Lights.
In order to have the best experience when viewing the Northern Lights, it’s recommended to find a location with a clear view of the northern horizon. Be patient and give your eyes some time to adjust to the darkness. It’s also a good idea to bring a blanket, snacks, and warm clothing, as you may need to wait for a while to see the Northern Lights in all their glory.
So, if you’re in the St. Louis area, Thursday and Friday nights might offer a rare opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Northern Lights. Don’t miss out on this chance to see one of nature’s most stunning displays right here in your own backyard.
