UPDATE 5PM
The area of high visibility (marked with red) has diminished greatly but the width of the probably visibility zone remains large.
The forecast is for some strengthening of the geomagnetic influence between 4pm and 7pm. The good news is the sky remains relatively cloud-free.
The good news is you shouldn’t have to stay up very late.
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UPDATE 2:30PM
The southern tip of Greenland is starting to enjoy a great show according to the forecast model (see new graphic). While the intensity is high the width of the viewing area is not as wide as it could be.
Original Story
A strong solar geomagnetic storm has been causing increased visibility of the aurora borealis, more commonly known as the northern lights, the last few hours today, November 3rd.
The storm reportedly reached its peak today, November 3rd, about noon Pacific Standard Time according to NOAA data. Unfortunately for us, that meant greater visibility for people on the exact opposite side of the globe from us (see the graphic). By the time our opportunity arrives, the storm is likely to have weakened, thus lessening the chances for viewing.
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Click for more informationAccording to the Space Weather Prediction Center, the Kp Index forecast for the next 24 hours is as follows (times are PST):
November 3rd and 4th
6 Kp – 10a to 1pm
5 Kp – 1pm to 4pm
6 Kp – 4pm to 7pm
5 Kp – 7pm to 10pm
4 Kp – 10pm to 1am
3 Kp – 1am to 4am
3 Kp – 4am to 7am
2 Kp – 7am to 10am
The higher the Kp, the more likely the northern lights will be visible. In the past a Kp of ~6 is needed to view south of the Canadian border.