The State News

Extreme Geomagnetic Storm: Northern Lights May Be Visible in Illinois

A rare severe geomagnetic storm watch has been issued from space, which could mean that the Northern Lights may be visible in Illinois for the first time since 2003.

This is a short-term forecast of the location and intensity of the aurora.

The storm is expected to hit Earth on May 10, 2024, and could cause the Northern Lights to be visible as far south as Illinois. The best time to see the aurora is typically between 10 pm and 2 am, when the sky is darkest.

The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that occurs when charged particles from the sun interact with Earth's magnetic field. The particles are drawn to the magnetic poles, where they collide with atoms and molecules in the atmosphere, causing them to emit light.

The intensity of the Northern Lights depends on the strength of the geomagnetic storm. A severe geomagnetic storm can produce aurora that are bright and colorful, while a weak storm may only produce a faint glow.

If you are hoping to see the Northern Lights in Illinois, be sure to find a dark location with a clear view of the northern sky. You may also want to bring a camera to capture the moment.

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