Northern Lights in Chicago? Geomagnetic Storm Might Make It Possible

Photo byHåkon SataøenonUnsplash

(CHICAGO) A geomagnetic storm means Chicago may get a chance to see the northern lights over the next few days.

While we normally cover food topics here, we couldn't help our excitement at possibly getting a look at the northern lights this week, without having to head all the way to Greenland.

According to the National Weather Service’s Space Weather Prediction Center, we are under a geomagnetic storm watch for Tuesday, July 30, through Thursday, August 1.

NOAA said in a statement, "A G3 Watch Remains in effect for Tuesday with G2 conditions possible through August 1.

What this means is that Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, and Wednesday night into Thursday morning, northern Illinois may be able to view the northern lights. While the northern lights were vibrant in some places around the Chicago area in May, this storm will offer a less bright display.

There are a few complications, however. For one thing, the exact timing of solar storms can be hard to predict. And secondly, there is a possibility of thunderstorms over the next few days in the Chicago area and cloud cover could block the view.

Photo byJoshua KettleonUnsplash

According to the Space Weather Prediction Center, Tuesday night the Chicago area is just south of the viewing area. But Wednesday night's storm may offer a peek at the lights if weather conditions stay clear. For best views, get as far away from city lights as you can.

For the latest predictions, check out the Prediction Center's website here.

One tip for seeing the northern lights is to look through your phone camera. Sometimes you can't see the lights with your naked eye, but when viewed through a camera, the lights appear.

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