The breathtaking aurora borealis may be visible this Friday night across several US states. This is thanks to a recent space phenomenon.
A geomagnetic storm pushed the northern lights further south than usual this week. As a result, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center (NWSSWPC) calculates another chance to see them at the right location on October 11, 2024, after many witnessed the event the previous day.
The NWSSWPC has been tracking the aurora’s activity and predicts a KP index of five for Friday night. This index, ranging from 0 to 9, indicates the intensity of the aurora.
A KP of 5 suggests a brighter and more active aurora, potentially visible further south than usual. The aurora typically appears as a green oval centered on Earth’s magnetic pole, but it can turn red during periods of heightened activity.
While often seen just after sunset or before sunrise, the aurora is not visible in daylight. Interestingly, it doesn’t have to be directly overhead to be seen; under ideal conditions, it can be observed from as far as 1,000 km (approximately 621 miles) away.
This celestial display isn’t just a visual wonder; it also serves as an indicator of geomagnetic storm conditions. These events can impact various technologies, including radio communication and GPS navigation
The NWSSWPC emphasizes the aurora borealis as an exceptional opportunity for many to personally experience the wonders of space weather. It is a captivating nighttime display that entices people to journey to Arctic regions simply to witness its beauty.
To see this event, the NWSSWPC suggests finding a location with minimal light pollution and an unobstructed view to the north. A higher vantage point, like a hill, can further enhance your viewing experience. Additionally, the optimal time to watch is usually within an hour or two of midnight, between 10 PM and 2 AM local time.
So, which states are most likely to catch this dazzling display? According to the view line calculated by the NWSSWPC, Alaska and northern parts of Washington have a higher chance of seeing it. Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin are also in this range.
Other states, including Montana, South Dakota, Iowa, Michigan, New York, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine, also have a possibility, though the likelihood is lower
Areas in the rest of the world may also see them. For example, the Meteorological Office predicts that cloudy skies will limit vision for most of the UK, except for Scotland.
This week’s stunning aurora borealis displays weren’t a surprise. The NWSSWPC issued a G4 storm watch on October 9th, 2024, following a coronal mass ejection from the Sun on October 8th.
This powerful solar event had the potential to cause significant disruptions to crucial infrastructure. “There is potential to reach G4 (Severe) upon arrival of this CME and throughout its passage,” the NWSSWPC warned. Eventually, the storm got stronger than initial predictions.
Therefore, this Friday night aurora borealis promises a captivating spectacle for those lucky enough to witness it. However, remember, these predictions can change depending on local weather conditions. Also, the unpredictable nature of this space phenomenon also factors into any chance of viewing.
‘I’m Leaving Y’all’: Whoopi Goldberg Walks Off ‘The View’ Amid Miranda Lambert Controversy
Following a contentious argument about the widely shared video of Miranda Lambert berating concertgoers, Whoopi Goldberg left the ABC television series The View set.
The comedian was in the middle of debating the viral moment when Miranda Lambert stopped singing her hit song “Tin Man” in the middle of her performance to reprimand a group of audience girls for taking selfies when she was performing. Sarah Haines, Joy Behar, Sunny Hostin, and Alyssa Farah Griffin were also present when Whoopi got up and left.
“Even though they came to see her and paid for tickets, they don’t want to be there. Whoopi stated, “So if she’s singing, show her at least a little respect so that you know you can see her and she can see you too.”
The co-hosts, however, disagreed with her viewpoint.
“I’m not at all divided on this. The $757 tickets in the VIP area they were in are pricey. Whoopi left after Sunny declared, “I’m going to take as many selfies as I want if I paid $757.”
When she saw a ninety-one-year-old woman and stopped to snap a selfie with her, the audience laughed as she exited the room. because I would like a photo with this amazing ninety-one-year-old woman. We shall so take a selfie. You and I together.
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