This Valentine’s Day, the Northern Lights Might Crash Your Date Night

A surge of solar wind is set to intensify the northern lights just in time for Valentine’s Day, potentially bringing the aurora spectacle to the US, as far south as Michigan and Maine.

Solar Storm to Enhance Aurora Activity

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has forecasted a G1 (minor) geomagnetic storm for the evening of Thursday, 13 February, with heightened activity expected throughout Friday, 14 February. The increased aurora activity is due to a high-speed solar wind stream heading toward Earth.

According to Spaceweather.com, the first impact of this solar wind is expected on 14 February, aligning perfectly with Valentine’s Day.

What’s Causing the Storm?

This storm originates from a coronal hole, which is a vast, open region in the sun’s atmosphere where solar wind escapes with greater ease. Over the past week, solar wind speeds have been elevated, ranging between 311 to 373 miles per second (500 to 600 km/s). A previous burst of this high-speed wind already triggered G1 storm conditions on February 9.

The next wave of charged particles occurred yesterday, setting the stage for another geomagnetic storm on Valentine’s Day. When the solar wind gets to the Earth’s magnetic field, it interacts with our atmosphere, exciting atmospheric gases and creating the stunning displays of the aurora borealis.

Where and When to See the Northern Lights

The best places to witness the northern lights will be high-latitude regions such as Canada, Alaska, and the northern U.S. If the storm strengthens, the auroras could extend southward, with potential visibility in northern Michigan and Maine.

For the best viewing experience:

• Find dark, clear skies away from city lights.
• Check real-time aurora forecasts using apps like “My Aurora Forecast & Alerts” or “Space Weather Live“.
• Be patient – auroras can appear suddenly and fade quickly.

While space weather is unpredictable, this Valentine’s Day storm could deliver a magical display of dancing lights. Keep your eyes on the sky!