Northern Lights Alert: How Iowans and Michiganders Can Catch the Aurora Borealis
For the second time in October, residents across Iowa and Michigan have a rare chance to witness the northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has reported that a “severe” G4 solar storm, triggered by a fast coronal ejection from the sun, will create elevated geomagnetic activity. This means that the northern lights may be visible as far south as Alabama and northern California, offering an extended opportunity for skywatchers across the Midwest.
When and Where to See the Northern Lights in Iowa and Michigan
- Iowa: According to NOAA forecasts, Iowans will have the best chance to see the northern lights on Thursday and Friday nights. Thursday offers the strongest viewing opportunity, with the state being fully covered by the viewline. Historically, the best time to view the lights is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.. By Friday, the chances diminish slightly, with northern Iowa still within view, though visibility is expected to be weaker.
- Michigan: Similarly, Michiganders in the southeast region could catch the northern lights on Thursday night, provided skies remain clear. The National Weather Service in Detroit/Pontiac notes that cloud-free skies will offer optimal viewing conditions.
Best Viewing Tips and Conditions
To improve your chances of seeing the aurora, avoid areas with light pollution. Using tools like the Dark Sky Map can help identify locations with minimal light interference. For Iowans, Des Moines is predicted to have clear skies on Thursday, with a low of 57°F, while Friday brings mostly cloudy conditions, making Thursday the prime night for aurora watching.
How to Capture the Northern Lights on Your Phone
If you’re struggling to see the lights with the naked eye, try using your smartphone’s camera. For iPhones, enabling night mode and adjusting the exposure time can help. Some photographers in Iowa recommend a 10-second exposure for better clarity. Apps like My Aurora Forecast & Alerts, available on both iPhone and Android, can notify you of aurora activity in your area and provide tips for capturing the best shots.
Iowans have already captured stunning images of the aurora earlier in October. Pete Raine, from Fairview, Iowa, shared an unedited photo of the northern lights on Facebook, taken with his iPhone 14. He noted that while the aurora was visible to the naked eye, it appeared far more vibrant through his phone camera.
Conclusion
This rare display of the northern lights offers a spectacular show for residents across Iowa and Michigan. Whether you’re a seasoned skywatcher or just curious, make sure to step outside on Thursday night, avoid light-polluted areas, and capture the moment with your phone. You may just witness one of nature’s most awe-inspiring displays!