Geomagnetic Storm: A minor geomagnetic storm is forecasted for December 25-26, caused by the arrival of a coronal mass ejection (CME) from the sun.
Visible in 10 U.S. States: People in parts of 10 states, including Alaska, North Dakota, Minnesota, Michigan, and others, may witness the aurora borealis.
– Aurora Zone: Northern lights are typically visible within the "Aurora Zone," which includes areas like Iceland, northern Sweden, and Alaska, but they can extend farther during heightened geomagnetic activity. –
Best Viewing Times: The optimal time for viewing the aurora is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, with the best visibility occurring around midnight.
Clear Skies Needed: To enhance visibility, viewers should seek locations away from city lights, ideally on higher ground with an unobstructed view of the sky.
Public Reaction: Experts, like space weather physicist Tamitha Skov, have highlighted the rare solar storm as an exciting opportunity for aurora sightings, even at mid-latitudes.
Future Aurora Activity: The NOAA forecasts continued aurora activity in 2025, offering more chances for people outside the Arctic Circle to witness this natural phenomenon.