A dazzling aurora could dance over Alberta this week due to ‘severe’ geomagnetic storm

It’s a beautiful day for a Northern Lights Display! This week, junior astronomers from coast to coast are encouraged to look up as a ‘severe’ geomagnetic storm warning has been issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Who doesn’t love an aurora? 

According to this week’s space weather forecast, the aurora borealis could dazzle those across Alberta, but you’ll want to be prepared!

When and where to see the lights

As reported by the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Calgary, Edmonton, and surrounding areas could see shades of green, pink, and purple dance across the sky.

“Geomagnetic K-index of 7 or greater expected,” the NOAA wrote on their social media. 

“Valid From: 2024 Oct 10 1541 UTC Valid To: 2024 Oct 11 0600 UTC.”

According to the organization, auroras with a G4 rating like this one, have been seen as low as Alabama and northern California, meaning it won’t just be the Prairie provinces that get to see the lights.

If you’d like to see them, dress for chilly weather, bring a snack, and get comfortable.

“Generally, the aurora appears a few hours after sunset, when the sky is clear and tends to become more intense around midnight,” explains the Canadian Space Agency.

As always, light pollution could be an issue for those in a big city, so we’d recommend heading away from the hustle and bustle if you’d like the view them in all their glory.

The aurora forecast is looking good and the weather is cooperating, so take a chance—and don’t forget to catch the upcoming Orionid Meteor shower.

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