Chicago, IL — This weekend could offer a rare chance for residents of the Chicago area to view the northern lights, thanks to an expected geomagnetic storm. NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center has forecasted a G3 storm, increasing the likelihood of aurora borealis visibility even at lower latitudes.
According to NOAA, the storm is caused by a coronal mass ejection from the sun. The northern lights, typically only seen in far northern regions, may appear over parts of the Midwest, including Chicago, with the best viewing times being early Saturday morning and late Saturday night.
For those in the Chicago area, heading to less light-polluted areas outside the city could enhance the viewing experience. As always, phone cameras can provide a better chance to capture the aurora’s colors, making this a unique opportunity for local skywatchers.
