Unpredictable Celestial Display: States Most Likely to Witness Northern Lights on New Year’s Eve
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Northern Lights at New Year: These 17 U.S. States May See 2024’s Final Celestial Act
As the clock strikes midnight on December 31, the United States will be on the cusp of a unique phenomenon – the final celestial display of Northern Lights in 2024. According to the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC), there is a significant chance that these 17 states may witness the breathtaking spectacle:
1. Alaska
2. Washington
3. Oregon
4. Idaho
5. Montana
6. Wyoming
7. North Dakota
8. Minnesota
9. Wisconsin
10. Michigan
11. Ohio
12. Pennsylvania
13. New York
14. Vermont
15. New Hampshire
16. Maine
17. Massachusetts
To see these spectacular displays, it’s essential to be in an area with minimal light pollution and clear skies. As the aurora borealis (northern lights) is visible primarily at high latitudes, it’s no surprise that the majority of states included on this list are located above 40 degrees north latitude.
However, as NASA’s Solar Cycle 25 Prediction Panel announced in October, solar activity has been at a 23-year high through 2024 and will likely continue into 2025. This increased activity may cause the auroral oval to expand its reach, potentially allowing more southern locations to see these spectacular displays.
To maximize your chances of witnessing this celestial event, consider traveling to one of the Dark Sky Preserves or National Parks in these states. These areas are specifically designed to minimize light pollution and ensure a clearer view of the night sky.
When preparing for the spectacle, it’s crucial to remember that predictions can be uncertain due to the dynamic nature of solar activity and Earth’s magnetic field. NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center will provide timely updates on space weather conditions and any changes to their 30-minute forecast, allowing aurora hunters to plan accordingly.
By knowing when a coronal mass ejection (CME) reaches Earth and begins interacting with the atmosphere, these predictions become more accurate and actionable for those seeking to witness this phenomenon.
Source: www.forbes.com
