The Chicago area could be in for a treat this week, as a strong geomagnetic storm could trigger a vivid Northern Lights display.
According to the National Weather Service’s Space Weather Prediction Center, a geomagnetic storm watch has been issued for Tuesday after a powerful coronal mass ejection was reported this weekend.
That CME is projected to arrive in Earth’s atmosphere on Tuesday, meaning that the Northern Lights could be visible far south of their usual ranges.
The peak of the storm could be classified as a G3, or “strong,” geomagnetic storm, according to the SWPC.
A geomagnetic storm rated as a G3 on the scale typically produces a Planetary K-index level of seven, which could theoretically make the Northern Lights visible as far south as Illinois and Oregon, according to the SWPC.
It’s unclear what time the bulk of the solar storm will arrive at Earth, which would impact whether the Northern Lights would be visible across parts of the continguous U.S., including the Chicago area.
In order to maximize chances of seeing the Northern Lights in such a scenario, residents would be urged to find a place with a clear view of the northern sky and one away from city lights, while allowing their eyes to adjust to the darkness for at least 15 minutes. Cameras can also pick up on the Northern Lights more than the naked eye in those situations.
Stay tuned to the NBC 5 Storm Team for the latest forecasts.
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