Northern Lights Visible in Up to 20 US States Including Michigan
On Thursday night, November 6, residents in up to 20 states may have the chance to see the northern lights, depending on weather conditions. Michigan is expected to experience a strong aurora display.
When and Where to See the Aurora Borealis in Michigan
The northern lights will be visible starting late Thursday night, November 6, and continuing into the early morning of Friday, November 7, according to NOAA's Weather Prediction Center. The lights might also be visible again on Friday night.
In Michigan, the aurora could appear overhead as far south as Traverse City, Gaylord, and Alpena. The northern horizon view line might extend as far south as northern Ohio and Indiana.
Cause and Prediction of the Geomagnetic Storm
NOAA forecasts a moderate geomagnetic storm triggered by solar eruptions that sent charged particles toward Earth's magnetic field earlier this week. This disturbance could push aurora visibility farther south than usual.
"A G3 geomagnetic storm, a worldwide disturbance of Earth's magnetic field, is expected to produce a Kp index of 7."
The Kp index measures the severity of global magnetic disruptions in near-Earth space, ranging from 0 to 9. An index of 5 or higher generally indicates northern lights can be seen across Michigan.
Summary
The northern lights will be prominently visible across Michigan and surrounding states starting late November 6, thanks to a moderate geomagnetic storm enhancing aurora activity farther south.
"An index of 5 or greater typically means the northern lights may be visible across Michigan."
The phenomenon offers a rare opportunity to enjoy the aurora borealis in regions beyond its usual reach.
Author's Summary
The upcoming geomagnetic storm on November 6 promises a rare and vivid northern lights display visible across Michigan and nearby states.