Numerous Metro Vancouverites captured an awe-inspiring northern lights display overnight Friday (May 19) and they may have other opportunities over the weekend.
While the Metro Vancouver weather forecast includes partly cloudy skies on Saturday night, there will still be an opportunity for locals to view the aurora borealis again.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)'s Space Weather Prediction Center says there is a 70 per cent per cent chance of R1-R2 (Moderate) geomagnetic storms on Saturday, caused by "an enhanced solar wind environment associated with the passage of a [coronal mass ejection]."
According to NOAA's Space Weather Scales, a moderate geomagnetic storm has been responsible for northern lights viewing opportunities as far south as New York and Idaho, which means locals would be able to spot them.
Light pollution in large cities makes the aurora borealis difficult to observe, but not impossible, given the right circumstances. But your best bet for viewing that hypnotic green glow is up north or outside of the city.
Of course, when you do spot the northern lights, they likely won't appear green or any other colour. Instead, you'll see the arcing, milky manifestation moving in the sky. In order to capture that green glow, you'll need to use a camera with a longer exposure.
Find out more northern lights information and viewing tips with our comprehensive guide.
