Photo: YOHAN LAURITO / AFP / Getty Images
Residents of West Michigan may have the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights tonight, as a geomagnetic storm is expected to enhance the visibility of this natural phenomenon. The National Weather Service has indicated that skies will be clear to partly cloudy, providing favorable conditions for viewing the aurora borealis.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a moderate geomagnetic storm caused by recent solar eruptions is sending charged particles toward Earth's magnetic field. This activity increases the chances of seeing the Northern Lights further south than usual, including in Michigan.
The best viewing times are projected to be between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m. Eastern Time, though this can vary. For optimal viewing, it is recommended to find a location with minimal light pollution.
The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in Earth's atmosphere, creating colorful displays in the night sky. This event is a rare treat for those living in the northernmost parts of the United States, including Michigan.