Over the weekend, faint northern lights may be visible across parts of the northern United States due to ongoing solar storms. Forecasters are monitoring the storms for possible disruptions to power and communication systems, as solar activity can sometimes interfere with these services.
The sun is currently at the peak of its 11-year magnetic cycle, which has resulted in more frequent solar storms and auroras. This week, the sun emitted two strong solar flares, with one on Thursday being the most powerful flare since 2017.
Solar Storms May Bring Faint Northern Lights to Parts of U.S. Amid Power and Communication ConcernsThere is a possibility that pale auroras may be seen as far south as South Dakota, Iowa, and New York. However, forecasters are uncertain if the solar storms will intensify or diminish over the weekend, making the exact effects unpredictable.
Earlier this year, in May, unusually strong solar storms created stunning aurora displays across the Northern Hemisphere. This week’s storms have been less intense, with fewer plasma ejections, according to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).