Seattleites and residents of Washington State are about to get another chance to view the Northern Lights tonight.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that the Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, could possibly be visible in Washington State tonight, October 10, 2024. The NOAA is forecasting a “severe” geomagnetic storm that will make the Northern Lights visible to more of the northern hemisphere than is typical.
Improving our chances here in Seattle is the fact that, for once, we’re supposed to have clear skies tonight.
However, you might need to take a little road trip to catch the unbelievable view if you’re surrounded by city lights. Grab some road trip snacks, pack up the whole family, and hit the road to catch a glimpse of this unparalleled natural phenomenon.
Where can I see the Northern Lights in Washington State?
To see if you’ll be able to catch the Northern Lights from your location, check out NOAA’s aurora forecast tool, which provides a 30-minute forecast window. The best visibility happens away from light pollution, so if you’re able to get away from the city lights tonight you’ll have the best chances.
The Northern Lights have been visible multiple times this summer in the North Cascades mountain range, located in northwestern Washington State.
NOAA updates and necessary viewing conditions
This possible view of the Northern Lights stems from geomagnetic activity from this summer’s massive solar flare sent out from the sun. The NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) issued a geomagnetic storm watch earlier this summer. A solar storm as strong as tonight’s is predicted to be can cause issues with power grids, GPS signals, and satellites. But on the bright side, all this increased solar activity improves your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, especially in dark, elevated areas away from city lights.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts that the Northern Lights are estimated to happen overnight, from Thursday evening to early Friday morning.
For more detailed updates, visit the NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center website.
What are the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights are typically only visible in the lower polar regions. This stunning natural light display happens when charged particles from the sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field. This interaction creates breathtaking patterns of light in the sky. Because of the previously mentioned geomagnetic storm, it has become possible to view this rare spectacle in Northern Washington.
How Else Can I See the Northern Lights in Washington?
If you’re not able to travel or if the skies aren’t clear in your area, you can still experience the Northern Lights via Explore.org’s online livestream. Everyone can marvel at this awe-inspiring natural event, even from the comfort of your own home.