Washington D.C. residents were treated to a rare sight on Thursday night as the Northern Lights made a surprising appearance in parts of Virginia. The stunning display was made possible by a severe geomagnetic storm caused by a coronal mass ejection from the sun.
The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration predicted that the geomagnetic storm would reach a G-4 rating, which is considered severe. The Northern Lights were expected to be visible as far south as Northern California through Alabama.
For those hoping to catch a glimpse of the aurora, the NOAA provided some tips for the best chance of viewing the natural phenomenon. They recommended heading north to areas with less light pollution and suggested that the best times to see the aurora are closer to midnight. The spring and fall seasons were also highlighted as optimal times to witness the spectacle due to the interaction between the solar wind and Earth’s magnetosphere.
The appearance of the Northern Lights in Virginia was a rare and memorable event for residents in the area. The stunning display served as a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the natural world, captivating observers and sparking wonder and awe.
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Photo credit www.fox5dc.com
