Rare northern lights sighting expected in Kansas tonight

(KOAM) - Kansans may be in for a rare celestial show tonight as the Northern Lights are expected to be visible due to a powerful geomagnetic storm currently affecting Earth’s atmosphere.

According to the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) , operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) , a severe geomagnetic storm alert was issued on Wednesday, October 9, ranking the storm at G4—just one level below the most extreme G5 classification.

The geomagnetic storm, caused by disturbances in Earth’s magnetic field, has intensified, creating favorable conditions for an aurora display far from the poles. This presents a unique opportunity for people in Kansas and other areas typically outside the auroral zone to witness the Northern Lights on the nights of October 10 and 11.

According to SWPC, the best aurora is usually within an hour or two of midnight (between 10 PM and 2 AM local time). These hours of active aurora expand towards evening and morning as the level of geomagnetic activity increases.

While geomagnetic storms are a relatively common phenomenon, one reaching a G4 level is rare and can have effects beyond just visible auroras.

The SWPC warns that the storm could impact technology, including GPS accuracy, satellite operations, and power grids, though infrastructure operators have been notified to take action to mitigate any issues.

To see the Northern Lights, residents are advised to head out to areas with low light pollution after sunset and look toward the northern horizon. With clear skies, the light show is expected to be visible in parts of Kansas, offering a rare opportunity.

For the latest updates and information on the storm, the public is encouraged to follow the SWPC’s updates online.

Get more tips on viewing the aurora here!

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