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The aurora borealis is anticipated to adorn the skies over the next few nights due to strong geomagnetic storm activity. This comes after a significant solar event, increasing the likelihood of witnessing the northern lights even in regions typically too far south to catch a glimpse.

Recalling the dazzling display on May 10, 2024, when an extreme geomagnetic storm allowed the northern lights to be seen globally, recent solar activity suggests another opportunity is imminent. The D.C. area, having last experienced an aurora alert in April, may have another chance to view the breathtaking lights owing to several significant solar events in the past day.

On Saturday at 10:04 a.m. EDT, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) issued a Geomagnetic Storm Alert. The alert indicates potential impacts primarily poleward of 45 degrees geomagnetic latitude. These include potential voltage control issues, intensified induced pipeline currents, and orientation problems for spacecraft due to surface charging.

The cause of this geomagnetic storm watch is a large coronal mass ejection (CME) from a powerful solar flare. Over the past 24 hours, the sun has emitted 11 solar flares, one of which was particularly powerful. While this event is not predicted to reach the historic levels of May 10, 2024, conditions could still be severe, classified as G4 (Severe).

According to the latest forecast from SWPC, this G4 geomagnetic storm watch is in effect for Monday, June 2, with the aurora potentially arriving as soon as Sunday, June 1. As the CME progresses, geomagnetic disturbances may initially reach G3 (Strong) levels and escalate to G4.

For the D.C. area, clear skies and strong aurora conditions could make it possible to detect the lights to the north over the next few nights. Residents are encouraged to seek out dark sky sites with clear horizons to enhance their chances of seeing the display. While auroras may appear low on the northern horizon visually, cameras and smartphones with night sky or low light settings can help capture more detailed images.

Monitoring tools such as WTOP’s weather page, NOAA’s website, EarthSky.org, SpaceWeather.com, and space.com can provide updates on the aurora forecasts and sky conditions. Space weather, influenced by the sun’s 11-year solar cycle, plays a significant role in these spectacular natural events.

Though rare, intense solar activities like the Carrington Event of 1859 had substantial impacts on Earth, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and preparedness. As we await this latest celestial show, the northern lights may remind us of the sun's powerful influence on our planet.