Canadians may witness another stunning northern lights display tonight as a result of recent solar activity. The sun has been active, emitting magnetic energy and three fast-moving particles known as coronal mass ejections (CMEs).
These CMEs are currently speeding through the solar wind towards Earth and could potentially merge into a “cannibal” CME. When these particles interact with Earth’s magnetic field, they produce the mesmerizing northern lights, or aurora borealis.
Normally visible in northern latitudes, a strong enough CME could extend the display further south. Remember the spectacular northern lights event on May 10, 2024, visible as far south as the Caribbean? That was due to a cannibal CME.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) is forecasting a significant geomagnetic storm tonight and into Friday. Geomagnetic storms are rated on a scale from G1 to G5.
According to the SWPC, there is a high probability of a combined CME arrival by mid-afternoon EDT on June 4, with potential G3 storm levels thereafter. The CME passage is expected to continue into the evening and possibly overnight hours of June 5.
While predicting the northern lights is challenging, the SWPC is reasonably confident about their arrival on Earth, though uncertain about the intensity. “Intensity is more uncertain due to the complex circumstances observed with these CMEs. Up to G3 storm levels are the best consensus, with a chance of G4,” the SWPC stated.
The intense northern lights displays in May and October 2024 were a result of G5 storm levels.
How to Witness the Northern Lights
Forecasts like this offer no guarantees as several conditions must align. The auroral hole, through which the CME particles travel, must shift southward for visibility. The further south it moves, the more likely they are to be seen. Additionally, the storm should coincide with nighttime.
To improve visibility, seek dark skies away from city lights. Clear skies enhance the chances of spotting the auroras. You can even try capturing them with your phone, even if they are not visible to the naked eye.
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