MINNEAPOLIS -- A significant solar event may offer a stunning display of northern lights for parts of the northern United States as the new year approaches. However, widespread cloud cover is expected to hinder visibility for many skygazers in Minnesota and Wisconsin.
The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported that two coronal mass ejections (CMEs) were ejected from the sun late last weekend. These CMEs reached Earth's magnetic field on Monday, increasing the likelihood of colorful auroras. Live updates on the storm's activity can be monitored on NOAA's website.
States including Alaska, Washington, Montana, the Dakotas, Wisconsin, Michigan, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine are positioned to experience the light show on Tuesday night. Unfortunately, much of Minnesota and Wisconsin will be under extensive cloud cover, according to WCCO's NEXT Weather Team.
While the northeast and southeast corners of Minnesota, along with the Arrowhead region, may experience clearer skies, cloud cover is also expected to affect visibility in Washington, Illinois, and Michigan.
In October, NASA announced the peak of solar activity in the current 11-year solar cycle, leading to more frequent solar surges and northern lights. NOAA noted that Solar Cycle 25 has generated a higher number of CMEs than initially forecasted, with this active phase anticipated to continue for at least another year.
When a CME interacts with Earth's magnetic field, the collision of its charged particles with the atmosphere can create vibrant waves of color across the sky.