The Northern Lights Could Be Visible In BC This Week & Here's When You Should Look For Them

Look up!

Northern lights in B.C. Right: Aurora borealis in B.C.

Northern lights in B.C. Right: Aurora borealis in B.C.

Editor

If you want a chance at spotting the northern lights in Vancouver, or somewhere else in B.C., you might be able to make it happen on October 5 and 6!

The northern lights forecast says that the aurora borealis is expected to be visible across most of Canada this week, giving British Columbians the chance at catching a glimpse of the stunning lights.

So get out your camera, and drive away from the bright city lights so you can have a chance at viewing the sky light up with bright colours.

You might even want to rent a remote cabin, to have the optimal experience in the province.

When can you see the northern lights in B.C.?

According to Aurora Forecast, October 5 is expected to have an "elevated aurora" activity level that suggests an "active aurora [is] possible with good chance of isolated minor auroral substorms and favourable conditions for major aurora activity."

On October 6, the activity level goes down to moderate but don't lose hope! An active aurora will still be possible and there are "favourable conditions for major aurora activity."

Then on October 7, the activity is still moderate and "isolated major aurora substorms" are possible.

Where to see the northern lights in B.C.?

The Geophysical Institute has an aurora forecast that shows high activity on October 5, covering parts of B.C. and Alberta in Western Canada.

Close to Vancouver "highly active auroral displays" might be visible low on the horizon.

The map shows higher activity near Fort Nelson and Prince Rupert, so if you want a show head towards Northern B.C.!

What time can you see the northern lights?

Look out for the northern lights after sunset, especially close to midnight, according to The Canadian Space Agency's aurora viewing tips.

You can also check the position of the auroral oval to see exactly when to go and see them!

  • Editor

    Morgan Leet (she/her) is an Editor for Narcity Media Group. After graduating from Carleton University’s School of Journalism and Communication, she jumped into fulfilling her dream as a journalist, merging her passion for travelling with writing. She got her start working in the print media world on Canada’s East Coast, then joined Narcity with a move to B.C., leading the launch of West Coast coverage. Her focus now is managing a large group of freelance writers, bringing human-forward and opinion content to the site.

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