Another geomagnetic storm predicted to bring Northern lights to the area

There are predictions that another geomagnetic storm could produce Northern lights over the skies of Alberta between Friday and Saturday. 

The American National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center, issued a geomagnetic storm watch earlier this week, classifying the potential storm as a G2, which is considered moderate.

"A CME [Coronal Mass Ejections] associated with the X1.4 flare, produced by Region 3697 earlier in the period, is likely to enhance the Earth's magnetic field late on 31 May into early on June 1 (UTC)."

The American National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center, issued a geomagnetic storm watch earlier this week, classifying the potential storm as a G2, which is considered moderate. (Graphic credit to The American National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA))
 

It is not likely this geomagnetic storm will be nearly as strong as the previous one this month, which NOAA classified as a G5, stating that it was one of the strongest geomagnetic storms in decades. According to the website auroraforecast.com, May 31 is ranked at a nine out 10 possibility for seeing the aurora in and around Airdrie.

"Active aurora possible with a good chance of isolated minor auroral substorms and favourable conditions for major aurora activity," the website stated.

While June 1 predictions are also ranked as a nine of out 10

The Canadian Space Agency, recommends that for those wanting to see the Northern lights, it's best to choose a location free of light pollution.

"The bright city lights that light up the sky make low-intensity auroras invisible."

Other tips include checking the aurora forecast to find out whether the northern lights will be visible in the sky near you and checking local weather forecasts.

"Clouds, precipitation and the full Moon make it difficult to see the aurora. Look all around you, not only north: auroras may appear anywhere in the sky."

Airdrie resident and aurora chaser, Chris Ratzlaff has also urged aurora chasers to be mindful of safety when going out. When he previously spoke to DiscoverAirdrie, he urged residents to not park on the side of highways. He said it is best to find a public, rural parking lot, where one can safely park the car and not obstruct traffic. He also cautioned Aurora Chasers to not trespass on private property.

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