Recent scientific observations indicate that strong space storms may significantly enhance the visibility of auroras, particularly the Northern Lights, in regions typically not known for such phenomena. Metro Vancouver, situated at a latitude that generally limits auroral activity, stands to benefit from these extraordinary cosmic events. Space weather, influenced by solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs), can create conditions ripe for spectacular light displays as charged particles collide with Earth's atmosphere
The aftermath of a strong solar flare this weekend will give rise to yet another decent opportunity to see the northern lights across Canada Monday evening through early Tuesday.
Night owls with clear skies should head outside and gaze up for a chance to see dazzling auroras after sunset into the early overnight.
The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) calls for high auroral activity on Monday, with possible displays visible "overhead from Inuvik, Yellowknife, Rankin, and Iqaluit, to Portland (Oregon), Cheyenne, Lincoln, Springfield, and New York City, and visible low on the horizon as far south as Carson City, Oklahoma City, and Raleigh," (see slide two).
One of the group's administrators, storm and aurora photographer Chris Ratzlaff, says there is a 55-per cent probability of full sky aurora(opens in a new tab).
The group recommends viewing aurora outside of cities, where the colours will be the most vibrant. Aurora is typically strongest around midnight.
The group provides advice for photographing northern lights online.
More information can be found online from the University of Alberta, which sends alerts about aurora shows and real-time monitoring of geomagnetic activity in the capital region, and the Space Weather Prediction Centre, which provides forecasting.
Experts rate the intensity of geomagnetic activity on the Kp Index, which ranges from Kp 0 on the low end to Kp 9 on the high end. Values around Kp 7 are sufficient for nationwide aurora visibility.
Tuesday morning’s geomagnetic activity could reach Kp 6, according to the U.S. Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC). This could make the northern lights visible all the way into southern Ontario.
Environment Canada's online cloud prediction tool for astronomical purposes shows when the sky may clear to determine the ideal aurora-viewing conditions.
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