Recent Coronal Mass Ejection to Cause Auroras Over Northern US

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) have issued a geomagnetic storm watch for this week, stemming from a coronal mass ejection (CME) that occurred on September 8. This solar eruption has released materials expected to reach Earth around midday on September 10, potentially making the Northern Lights visible from the northern U.S. and parts of the upper Midwest, stretching from New York to Idaho. This is prepared by SSP.

The CME's arrival is predicted late Tuesday morning, impacting Tuesday night and into Wednesday. This storm has prompted a G2 geomagnetic storm watch, meaning moderate geomagnetic activity is anticipated. However, the lingering effects are expected to taper into minor storming levels by Wednesday.

The Northern Lights are a result of interactions between charged solar particles and Earth's magnetic field, interacting with atoms and molecules in the upper atmosphere to produce vivid colors. While typically observed at high altitudes, periods of heightened geomagnetic activity can push these displays further south.

According to the NOAA and SWPC, regions such as Wisconsin and Michigan may witness the aurora this week. Chicago-area visibility is unlikely unless a G3 or higher storm occurs, which has historically been rare. Earlier this year, a G4 storm led to the first geomagnetic storm warning in nearly two decades, producing spectacular views down to the deep south.

Overall, citizens in northern and upper Midwest areas are urged to keep an eye out for this stunning natural phenomenon during the early parts of this week.