Intense solar storm hits Earth; expands northern lights visibility across US

WASHINGTON: On Monday, Earth was struck by an intense solar storm that is expected to bring the mesmerizing northern lights, or aurora borealis, to regions much further south than usual, according to a report from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

The NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center observed conditions of a level-four geomagnetic storm on a scale of five starting at 1500 GMT (8 PM Paksitan Time). These conditions, which are anticipated to continue for several hours, have sparked excitement among sky-watchers as they enhance the visibility of auroras across different latitudes.

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“A severe geomagnetic storm includes the potential for the aurora to be seen faintly as far south as Alabama and northern California,” NOAA said in a statement.

The storm is the result of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) — powerful explosions of particles ejected from the Sun. When these particles collide with Earth’s magnetic field, they cause disruptions that can lead to spectacular light shows in the sky.

Astrophysicist Eric Lagadec of the Cote d’Azur Observatory in France shared his enthusiasm on social media platform X, formerly Twitter, stating, *“There are a lot of auroras now… If it lasts until nightfall here, we might be able to see some.”

Adding to the excitement, NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick, currently aboard the International Space Station, posted a stunning photo of the aurora borealis from his unique vantage point in space.

POTENTIAL RISKS OF SOLAR STORMS

While the visual spectacle of the northern lights captivates many, solar storms also carry risks. NOAA cautioned that these geomagnetic storms can degrade high-frequency communications, disrupt satellite operations, and potentially cause overloads in power grids. As a result, operators of sensitive infrastructure have been alerted to take precautionary measures to mitigate these effects.

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The current solar activity is part of a pattern linked to the Sun’s 11-year cycle of solar activity, which is approaching its peak. This has led to an increase in the frequency and intensity of geomagnetic storms. In May, one of the most powerful geomagnetic storms in 20 years was recorded, resulting in auroras being visible across the United States, Europe, and Australia, even at latitudes not typically accustomed to such displays.

As the night approaches, sky-watchers in the affected areas are encouraged to look to the skies for a chance to witness this rare and beautiful phenomenon. With clear skies and minimal light pollution, residents may catch a glimpse of the ethereal light show that usually graces the far northern latitudes.