Northern Lights could be visible tonight in Michiana

 

Mostly clear skies and a strong geomagnetic storm will lineup tonight, giving Michiana a chance to see the Northern Lights.

The Space Weather Prediction Center has a "Strong Geomagnetic Storm Watch" in effect for August 18.

G1-G3 Watches are in effect for 17-19 August, 2022 due to likely CH HSS and CME influences. There is too much information to tweet about this activity - so please visit our webpage story at https://t.co/SitaSD3blc for all the information to keep properly informed. pic.twitter.com/E9K21u1TnJ

— NOAA Space Weather (@NWSSWPC) August 16, 2022

However, the most intense aurora activity is predicted from 11 PM ET tonight until 2 AM ET Thursday morning. That's when G3, or strong, conditions are most likely.

Here is the scale of geomagnetic storms that the SWPC uses. For Michiana to even have a glimmer of hope to see the Northern Lights, the storm's strength needs to be at least at G3 intensity.

Fortunately for Michiana, sky conditions will be perfect tonight to try and catch a glimpse of the aurora's dance.

Remember to get as far away from light pollution as possible and try to have total darkness to the north. The farther north you are, the better your chance of seeing anything will be.

Also, a word of caution: remember that what you might see with your naked eye isn't the same as a photo taken with a long exposure lens. More than likely, you might be able to see a green hue off in the distance low on the horizon.

Temperatures will be comfortable tonight, with most experiencing the 60s while you might be outside stargazing.

Best of luck, and make sure to share your photos with us on Facebook and Twitter or through email!