Meteorologists Tracking A Major Space Storm Headed Our Way

Did you know that the NOAA tracks space weather? It's a pretty important thing because solar flares and coronal mass ejections can wreak havoc on our technology, like satellites and radio frequencies. They can even damage power grids. The strongest electromagnetic storm ever recorded was the Carrington Event in 1859. They had Northern Lights visible as far as the tropics. The limited technology at the time meant the damage wasn't nearly what it would be today.

Fast Moving CME May Be Earth-Directed

Early in the morning of November 11th, NOAA NWS Space Weather Prediction Center detected a energectic and fast moving CME blast from the sun. They expect the bulk of the space material to hit Earth sometime late tonight into the early morning of November 12th. They are evaluating the situation to see if a G4 or greater watch will need to be issued. The CME isn't directly aimed at Earth, but our planet will still likely absorb some of the shockwave.

Possible Northern Lights Across Much Of the US

The electromagnetic storm will bring the Northern Lights to many parts of the US. One meteorologist, Ross Ellet, says this is the biggest storm of the year so far, and could be like the solar flares that caused the Northern Lights to be visible in the Southern US.

The best way to see the Northern Lights is to be in an area with low light pollution. Check the prediction center's website for updated forecasts.