Empire State Review Team 
Northern Lights Display Expected on March 22, 2025
Skywatchers across the northern United States may have a chance to witness a spectacular display of the Northern Lights this Saturday night, following a minor exhibition on Friday. This weekend’s aurora borealis is expected to be more vibrant and prolonged due to an incoming solar flare.
Solar Activity and Auroral Prospects
An eruption on the sun, characterized as a solar flare, occurred on Friday and is predicted to reach Earth by Saturday night. This event is likely to trigger a geomagnetic storm.
Geomagnetic Storm Watch Details
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a Level 3 Geomagnetic Storm Watch based on a 5-point scale, indicating that the storm could be significantly strong. According to NOAA, “Watches at this level are infrequent, but not uncommon.” While this storm may not reach the extremes of past events categorized as levels 4 or 5, it is still anticipated to provide a noteworthy show for residents in states like Oregon, Iowa, and parts of New England.
Optimal Viewing Conditions
The peak conditions for aurora viewing are expected between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m. Eastern Time (7-10 p.m. Pacific Time). However, cloud coverage may affect visibility. Locations such as Seattle, Minneapolis, and northern Maine are anticipated to be largely overcast, with about 50% chances of clear skies in areas like Chicago and across the Great Lakes region.
Understanding Geomagnetic Storms
Geomagnetic storms pose no threat to human health; however, stronger storms are known to disrupt communication systems, causing issues like radio blackouts and impacting satellite operations.
Tips for Viewing the Northern Lights
- Find a location far from city lights for the best visibility.
- Look towards the northern horizon for optimal viewing.
- For improved visibility, consider using a camera with a long exposure setting to capture the colors.
Previous auroral activity on Friday showcased a mix of minor to moderate displays, with viewers from regions like Upstate New York and northern Puget Sound near Seattle sending in photos of the phenomenon.
With Saturday night’s display anticipated to potentially surpass Friday’s performance, enthusiasts are encouraged to prepare for an exciting evening under the stars.
