The northern lights could put on a 'spectacular display' in Canada for the next two nights
If you don't want to miss what could be a "spectacular display" of the northern lights over Canada, keep your eyes on the skies over the next two nights!
Thanks to a massive solar flare that erupted from the sun earlier this week, a dazzling display of the aurora borealis could be lighting up the sky tonight (Thursday) and Friday night.
According to meteorologists at The Weather Network, a solar flare that popped off from the sun on Tuesday, October 1, is responsible for what could be a "spectacular display" of the northern lights.
This flare—an X7.1-class, which is one of the strongest this year—triggered a coronal mass ejection (CME). Without getting too technical, this is a huge cloud of charged particles that are now speeding toward Earth. When these particles hit our planet's magnetic field, they can create those iconic, vibrant lights.
Forecasts predict this so-called "solar storm" will pass by Earth late Thursday or early Friday, with the potential to spark strong geomagnetic storms that could lead to a light show visible all across Canada.
Thursday night's display will favour central and western Canada, while Friday night's auroras are expected to shine brightest for folks in eastern Canada, potentially stretching as far as southwestern Ontario.
According to TWN, sky-watchers in western Canada are in for the biggest treat, as they are the most likely to get two nights of back-to-back aurora viewing.
Wherever you're located, for the best viewing experience, you'll want to find a dark spot away from city lights. Think wide-open spaces like parks, rural areas, or even your own backyard if you live somewhere with minimal light pollution. The northern lights tend to peak around midnight, so grab a warm drink, bundle up, and be patient!
Whether you're in British Columbia or Nova Scotia, there's a chance to catch this natural wonder in action. And if the skies are clear, this is one show you definitely don't want to miss.
So, set those alarms, charge your phone for some epic pics, and get ready to witness one of nature's most stunning light displays. Let's hope for clear skies and an unforgettable show!
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The NOAA's aurora visibility maps.
The NOAA's aurora visibility maps.