The Northern Lights could be visible across Canada this weekend & here's what to know

Magic incoming, night owls! This long weekend, those willing to stay up well after dark could be in for quite the show. From coast to coast the Northern Lights may dance across Canada and a few big cities could have a front-row seat.

According to Canada’s Aurora Forecast, Astronomy North and The University of Alaska Fairbanks, those lucky enough to see clear skies might be in for an impressive display, as a G1-G2 geomagnetic storm watch has been issued for February 17th and 18th, 2023.

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You might be able to see the northern lights this week & here’s when

G1 Watches are out for 16-17 Feb and a G2 Watch for 18 Feb. These are in anticipation of lingering CME influences from an arrival earlier today, followed by a new CME arrival that departed the Sun on 15 Feb. Visit https://t.co/9n7phHb5ok for the latest information and updates. pic.twitter.com/JRhlbsKuyl

— NOAA Space Weather (@NWSSWPC) February 15, 2023

A collision between the sun’s charged particles and gasses in Earth’s upper atmosphere, the lights of the Aurora Borealis are often visible from northern destinations like the Yukon, Norway and Greenland.

However, when the sun is more active, the lights are pushed down and out, giving those further away from the Earth’s poles a better seat for the natural phenomenon.

“Observers in AB, SK, MB, and northern BC, ON, QC, NL be on alert for auroras this evening and overnight,” Astronomy North writes – though it is important to note that weather (no matter where you are in the solar system) can be pretty unpredictable and will greatly affect your experience.

As always, don’t bet your life on seeing the sky painted green – but stay hopeful, enthusiastic and awake.

“The best time to watch for aurora is the three or four hours around midnight, but aurora occurs throughout the night,” the University explains.

“Since clear sky and darkness are both essential to see aurora, the best time is dictated by the weather and by the sunrise and sunset times.”

Nothing is promised, but it’s looking pretty good. Good luck, bring snacks, and remember to tag us in your photos.

There’s really nothing like it!

Curiocity Staff

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