NOAA Predicts Aurora Borealis Visibility Across Northern U.S. Due to Geomagnetic Storm
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has forecasted that nearly one-third of the United States could witness the aurora borealis due to a geomagnetic storm. This rare event is expected to be visible across 18 states, including Alaska, Idaho, Illinois, and Oregon, as solar winds hit Earth at speeds of up to 430 miles per second. The auroras, typically seen in Arctic regions, are predicted to be visible as far south as Illinois and Oregon. NOAA provides maps on its website to assist those interested in viewing the phenomenon, which is expected to be most visible between 5 p.m. EDT on April 17 and 2 a.m. EDT on April 18.