The second strongest geomagnetic storm of this solar cycle, only behind the incredible G5 storm in May, is expected to hit Earth on Thursday, according to NOAA. Aurora borealis may be seen as far south as Georgia and Texas, meaning we will have a great opportunity here in Pennsylvania. It all comes down to the weather, and of course light pollution.
A maximum KP of 8.33 is forecast between the hours of 5-11 PM Thursday, with a continued KP of 8 projected into the early morning hours of Friday. This is perfect timing with sunset between 6-7 PM on the US East Coast. The hours directly after sunset Thursday, into the early morning Friday, will be the best time to view the aurora.
Clear skies look to dominate across Pennsylvania, with only a few clouds possible in far Northern PA. Also worth noting, we will have a first quarter moon Thursday evening, meaning it will be 47% illuminated. Below is the cloud cover forecast for 8:00 PM Thursday evening.
AURORA BOREALIS FORECAST FOR THURSDAY NIGHT
With a KP of 8.33, the view line is along the Southern PA border and near the 40° north latitude line across the US. This forecast is for viewing aurora with your eyes, rather than through a long exposure photo.
You may see photos and wonder why that’s not what you saw outside, but it’s because those photos are taken through a camera which captures the maximum light exposure over the span of 3-15 seconds, through a lens that is very sensitive to light. This forecast is for Thursday night’s aurora viewing.
THURSDAY NIGHT’S AURORA VIEWING FORECAST
This is a special forecast map that takes into account cloud cover, light pollution, and KP index to give you the best idea of where to view the northern lights.
This map was made with the assumption the solar storm will impact Earth on Thursday. If it does not, it may be delayed or not occur.
Area A: Clear skies, a half moon, no light pollution, and an expected KP of 8.33 will result in unbelievable aurora borealis viewing conditions Thursday night.
Area B: Clear skies, a half moon, low light pollution, and an anticipated KP of 8.33 will result in spectacular aurora viewing conditions Thursday night.
Area C: Clear skies, a half moon, and an expected KP of 8.33 are forecasted Thursday night. Significant light pollution will reduce aurora borealis viewability, so we advise going to a location in Area A or B for better viewing conditions.
An opportunity like this only comes around a few times a decade, so don’t forget to share this article with friends and family!
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