Sky-watchers, rejoice!
While there might be some cloud periods to consider, Metro Vancouverites might have the opportunity to spot some auroral activity over the next couple of days.
For Friday (Sept. 16), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)'s Space Weather Prediction Center did not forecast G1 (Minor) geomagnetic storms or "significant transient or recurrent solar wind features."
But according to the University of Fairbanks (UAF), active auroral displays will be visible overhead on Friday in places like "Inuvik, Yellowknife, Rankin and Iqaluit to Juneau, Edmonton, Winnipeg and Sept-Iles," and visible low on the horizon from "Vancouver, Great Falls, Pierre, Madison, Lansing, Ottawa, Portland and St. Johns."
The university's online aurora monitor map shows what regions the aurora's green glow will likely reach, as well as other areas where there is less of a possibility. Additionally, there is a brief description below the map of the aurora activity on that particular day. You can switch to other days to see the forecast, too.
On Saturday, the university forecast includes more active auroral displays overhead from "Inuvik, Yellowknife, Rankin and Iqaluit to Juneau, Edmonton, Winnipeg and Sept-Iles," as well as visible low on the horizon from "Vancouver, Great Falls, Pierre, Madison, Lansing, Ottawa, Portland and St. Johns."
Everything B.C. residents need to know about viewing the Northern Lights
Want to view the vibrant, dancing lights in all of their sublime, celestial glory?
Light pollution in large cities makes the aurora borealis difficult to observe, but not impossible, given the right circumstances. That said, your best bet for viewing that hypnotic green glow is up north or outside of the city.
Since clear sky and darkness are both essential to see aurora, the best time is dictated by the weather and by the sunrise and sunset times.
The moon is also very bright and can make it more difficult to view the aurora, so lunar cycles should be taken into account.
- Find out more northern lights information and viewing tips with our comprehensive guide.
