The Northern Lights could be visible in Vancouver this week

Heads up! You might just catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights in Vancouver this week – if the mixed bag of September weather is on our side.

According to the University of Alaska Fairbanks, auroral activity will be especially high on Friday, September 13th.

“Weather permitting, highly active auroral displays will be visible overhead from Inuvik, Yellowknife, Rankin and Iqaluit to Vancouver, Helena, Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Bay City, Toronto, Montpelier, and Charlottetown, and visible low on the horizon from Salem, Boise, Cheyenne, Lincoln, Indianapolis and Annapolis,” reads the forecast.

This is echoed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which forecasts that the greatest three-hour Kp index for Wednesday, September 11th to Friday, September 13th is 6 (G2), which is considered to be between a moderate and active aurora. 

There’s also a slight chance for an S1 (Minor) solar radiation storm between Wednesday and Friday. So keep your eyes to the skies, because even if the weather isn’t as favourable, there’s always a chance we’ll catch a glimpse!

This week’s weather forecast

In terms of this week’s weather, Environment Canada forecasts that the skies should start to clear on Thursday, September 12th, with “cloudy periods” on Thursday night and a “mix of sun and cloud” on Friday, September 13th. So fingers crossed it’s mostly clear on Friday night!

Looking for a spot with less light pollution for the ideal view? We suggest heading to Spanish Banks, Locarno, or Stanley Park if you’re in Vancouver, or opt for a spot near Burnaby Mountain or West Vancouver’s Lighthouse Park.

So there you have it, Vancouver. Get your long-exposure settings ready, and get ready to capture what will hopefully be a mesmerizing glow!

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