Northern Lights May Be Visible in 20 US States, Including Michigan
Up to 20 states could witness the northern lights on the night of Thursday, November 6, weather permitting. Michigan residents have a strong chance to see a vibrant aurora display that evening and into the early morning of Friday, November 7.
Viewing Details for Michigan
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts the northern lights will be visible across Michigan, potentially as far south as Traverse City, Gaylord, and Alpena. The aurora may appear just above the northern horizon further south, reaching northern Ohio and Indiana.
Cause and Intensity
NOAA attributes this event to a moderate geomagnetic storm triggered by solar eruptions earlier in the week, which sent charged particles towards Earth's magnetic field.
NOAA says a G3 geomagnetic storm, a worldwide disturbance of Earth's magnetic field, is expected to produce a Kp index of 7.
The Kp index measures the severity of magnetic disturbances near Earth on a scale from 0 to 9. Typically, a Kp of 5 or higher indicates that the northern lights may be visible in Michigan.
Timing and Outlook
- The display should begin late Thursday night, Nov. 6, continuing into early Friday morning, Nov. 7.
- The northern lights may also be visible again on Friday night.
This week's geomagnetic activity means the aurora could be seen farther south than usual across the region, offering a rare opportunity for many to enjoy this natural light show.
Summary
This week's solar activity creates favorable conditions for the northern lights to be visible across Michigan and up to 20 states, with more southern areas enjoying an uncommon aurora display.