Space Weather Prediction Center
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If you missed the surprise Northern Lights display in November, you might have another chance in Colorado tonight. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts that the colorful lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, may make an appearance across several states, including Ohio, Wyoming, Colorado and Nebraska, on Monday, January 19.
NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a rare G4 geomagnetic storm watch, an alert about a severe disturbance in Earth’s magnetic field. Geomagnetic storms can cause coronal mass ejections, or CMEs, which are eruptions of plasma from the sun that can reach Earth in days, or even as little as eighteen hours, according to NOAA. These solar flares create color in the sky as they clash with Earth’s atmosphere.
November’s Northern Lights display was attributed to a G4-level geomagnetic storm, too.
The phenomenon sounds somewhat scary (and it can be; severe geomagnetic storms have the power to damage satellites and power grids), but the resulting shades of red, magenta, purple and green that light up the sky have delighted skywatchers for centuries.
Where in Colorado Will the Northern Lights Be Visible?
NOAA’s predicted view line for tonight’s Aurora Borealis drops into northeast Colorado, making the area near the Wyoming border the prime spot for seeing the lights.
According to 9NEWS meteorologist Chris Bianchi, the best Colorado counties for views of the lights tonight will be Larimer and Weld.
How to See the Northern Lights in Colorado
The best viewing is on a clear night, away from light pollution. In a TikTok video, Bianchi says the sky should be clear across Colorado tonight, which makes for optimal Aurora Borealis viewing conditions.
Those searching for the lights should check the sky between 8 p.m. and midnight.
Bring your patience (the lights can come in waves) and a camera — cameras can capture colors that can’t be seen with the naked eye. But if the lights are strong enough, they will be visible without a camera.
While professional photographers love a chance to capture the Northern Lights, you don’t need a fancy camera to do so. iPhone users can capture the Northern Lights by setting the camera to “night mode,” turning flash off, and making sure exposure and shutter speed are low.
Share your photos of tonight’s Aurora Borealis with Westword at editorial@westword.com.
