Springfield, MO. (KOLR) – A heightened chance for auroras is on the horizon, as the Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a geomagnetic storm watch from today through Saturday.
A coronal mass ejection was spotted earlier this week, which could allow the northern lights to push farther south than usual, potentially becoming visible across parts of the Ozarks.
While visibility is never guaranteed this far south, we’ve been fortunate enough to see the light display even times over the past couple of years.
The timing of this event occurring during the spring equinox may not be a coincidence. Aurora activity tends to be enhanced during both the spring and fall equinoxes. This phenomenon is linked to something called the “Russell-McPherron effect,” where the orientation of Earth’s magnetic field during the equinoxes makes it easier for incoming solar wind to interact with our planet’s magnetosphere.
For those hoping to catch a glimpse, the chances for seeing the aurora in Missouri and Arkansas are looking slim but not impossible. The best viewing conditions will occur overnight in spots that are away from the city and all sources of light pollution.
Additionally, a camera phone tends to pick up the aurora a bit better than the human eye. If an aurora does occur, you can use your phone to identify the lights and then give your eyes time to adjust.
Even if the auroras don’t become vivid overhead, strong storms can still produce subtle but beautiful displays low on the horizon…