Heads up, Vancouver! There's a chance the Northern Lights could be visible tonight

If you’re out and about later tonight, don’t forget to look up to the skies. The clouds are slowly clearing in Vancouver, and the Northern Lights could be visible if you know where to look.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center, a moderate (G2) geomagnetic storm alert has been issued for Wednesday, August 28th. So let’s hope the skies clear up over the next couple of hours to give us an ideal view!

“G2 (Moderate) geomagnetic storm levels were observed at 28/0259 UTC (10:59 Eastern) due to persistent CME effects,” they say on their website.

While moderate levels may vary in intensity, it’s worth scoping out a secluded spot away from the city lights to see if you can catch a glimpse of dancing pink and green hues!

The Aurora Forecast by the UAF Geophysical Institute says that auroral displays will be visible overhead from Inuvik, Yellowknife, Rankin, and Iqaluit to Juneau, Edmonton, Winnipeg and Sept-Iles, and visible low on the horizon from Vancouver, Great Falls, Pierre, Madison, Lansing, Ottawa, Portland and St. Johns.

Tonight’s weather forecast

In terms of tonight’s weather, Environment Canada forecasts that the skies should continue to clear throughout the afternoon until there are just “a few clouds” by 8 pm – the current sunset time.

Looking for a spot with less light pollution to interfere with your view? Head to Spanish Banks, Locarno Beach, or Stanley Park if you’re in Vancouver, or opt for an area near Burnaby Mountain or West Vancouver’s Lighthouse Park.

Who knows, tonight could be your lucky night when it comes to catching the Northern Lights in Vancouver!

So grab your comfy blankets and warm layers, and prepare for a fantastic glow.

Good luck!

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