The Space Weather Prediction Center in Boulder has released a G4 Severe geomagnetic storm alert:
- A G4 or greater Geomagnetic Storm Watch remains in effect for today and Friday.
- The geomagnetic storm, which is expected to last through today and tomorrow, October 11th. There is still a possibility that we could reach G5 (Extreme) levels.
- This storm could impact ongoing recovery efforts for Hurricanes Helene and Milton in several critical ways:
- Communications: Systems that depend on low-Earth orbit satellites or High-Frequency communication may experience disruptions.
- Power grids: The storm could put additional stress on power grids already weakened by the hurricanes.
- GPS services: Navigation systems, especially those relied upon in disaster relief, may be degraded.
- SWPC has already updated FEMA and several state agencies involved in recovery operations.
- When skies are clear, the aurora (Northern Lights) could be visible as far south as Alabama and northern California tonight.
Snap a photo of the northern sky
You may not be able to see an aurora with the naked eye tonight, but your phone might! Find a dark area with a good view of the north and take photos of the night sky with your phone camera, “you might get a nice surprise,” to quote an expert.
The timing of the possible aurora is somewhat uncertain. Generally, the best aurora viewing is usually within an hour or two of midnight (between 10 PM and 2 AM local time). These hours of active aurora expand towards evening and morning as the level of geomagnetic activity increases. There may be aurora in the evening and morning but it is usually not as active and therefore, not as visually appealing.
The National Weather Service in Reno has provided this animation of the cloud forecast tonight. Just a few high cirrus clouds right around sunset, then it should all be clear!
As always, please share your photos with us. Text them to 530-478-9600 with your name (for the photo credit) and location, or email news@yubanet.com.