Latest news with #AuroraBorealis
Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Climate
- Hindustan Times
Weather forecast for June 17: Kansas braces for severe thunderstorms, California issues heat advisory
Millions in the central US are bracing for severe weather conditions on Tuesday, June 17, with thunderstorms and torrential rains expected across multiple cities. This comes a day after tornadoes hit parts of Minnesota and Nebraska in the Midwest region. On Tuesday morning, severe thunderstorms blasted Kansas, where Wichita reported a record 101-mph wind gust, according to Fox Weather. The National Weather Service has predicted severe thunderstorms that could produce damaging winds, hail, along a few tornadoes in parts of the central Plains as well as the Missouri Valley. Earlier in the day, a severe thunderstorm watch as well as multiple flood watches and flash flood warnings were issued. The Fox Weather report added that a cold front continues to plow across these regions. On its 5-point severe thunderstorm risk scale, the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has placed parts of western and central Kansas in a Level 4 threat. The affected cities include Wichita, Hutchinson, Garden City, Dodge City and Derby. Additionally, over two million people have been placed in Level 3 threat from portions of Colorado through west-central Missouri. Affected cities include Topeka and Lawrence in Kansas. ALSO READ: Aurora Borealis alert! These US states may see northern lights this weekend In New York, people can expect extreme humidity during the day, with conditions remaining the same until Thursday. Similar humidity levels have been predicted from Sunday through next week. Temperatures will be on the rise in California as well after several days of pleasant, seasonable weather. The NWS San Diego, California has issued an updated heat advisory that remains in effect until 8 pm today. This is for the Santa Ana Mountains and Foothills and Orange County Inland, where the temperature could go up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Stormy weather is expected in the Chicago area on Tuesday, with temperatures remaining as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) stated that Tropical Storm Erick formed in the Eastern Pacific Ocean earlier in the day. This remained about 450 miles southeast of Punta Maldonado, Mexico. This is the fifth named storm of the Eastern Pacific hurricane season this year. It is most likely to become a hurricane on Wednesday. The storm can possibly bring heavy rains as far north as Texas. It was a tropical storm in the North Pacific Ocean and sustained wind speeds of 40 miles per hour. It started around May 15, two weeks before the Atlantic season. Both of them run through November 30. Severe thunderstorms and torrential rains are expected across the north-central US to the East Coast this week, according to AccuWeather.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Climate
- Yahoo
Will the Aurora Borealis be visible this week?
The sun has been crackling with eruptions known as solar flares, events that sometimes lead to the aurora glowing in the night sky. However, despite the recent flurry of activity on the sun, seeing the celestial lights may be tricky this week. Solar flares, like those detected on Sunday and Monday, often blast clouds of charged particles into space. When these particles collide with the Earth's atmosphere, they can create ribbons of light that dance across the sky. The recent eruptions were not pointed directly at the Earth, but should come close enough to spark some aurora on Wednesday and Thursday. The lights might become visible across parts of the northern U.S., but a widespread aurora outbreak like those seen in May and October 2024 is not expected. Summer solstice vs. Aurora Borealis Stargazing in the Northern Hemisphere at the end of June is challenging due to the solstice, which boasts the longest days-and, more importantly, the shortest nights-of the entire year. There may only be a few hours each night when it is dark enough to see the aurora before the morning twilight begins, gradually washing out the twinkling stars with sunlight. This year, the solstice falls on June 20. In parts of Canada and Alaska, it does not get dark enough at this time of year to see the northern lights, even during major events. When will the aurora be visible again? A minor geomagnetic storm (level 1 of 5) is likely this week, according to NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center. Typically, a geomagnetic storm needs to be at least moderate strength (level 2 of 5) for the aurora to appear across the far northern U.S. under ideal conditions. Additionally, clouds will be a concern across the Northeast, Great Lakes and northern Plains most of the week due to rounds of showers and thunderstorms, which could hinder views of the night sky. There is some good news for stargazers, however. The area of the sun that has been bursting with solar flares continues to be active. Additional eruptions could increase the likelihood of seeing the aurora despite the short nights around the solstice.
UPI
5 days ago
- Science
- UPI
Aurora Borealis to be visible but dim this week
The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, can be seen in the skies in the Shenandoah National Park near Front Royal, Va., in October 2024. The recent solar-flare eruptions were not pointed directly at the Earth, so the lights might be visible across parts of the northern United States, but a widespread aurora outbreak like those seen in May and October 2024 is not expected. File Photo by Pat Benic/UPI | License Photo The sun has been crackling with eruptions known as solar flares, events that sometimes lead to the aurora glowing in the night sky. However, despite the recent flurry of activity on the sun, seeing the celestial lights may be tricky this week. Solar flares, like those detected on Sunday and Monday, often blast clouds of charged particles into space. When these particles collide with the Earth's atmosphere, they can create ribbons of light that dance across the sky. The recent eruptions were not pointed directly at the Earth, but should come close enough to spark some aurora on Wednesday and Thursday. The lights might become visible across parts of the northern United States, but a widespread aurora outbreak like those seen in May and October 2024 is not expected. Summer solstice vs. Aurora Borealis Stargazing in the Northern Hemisphere at the end of June is challenging due to the solstice, which boasts the longest days -- and, more importantly, the shortest nights -- of the entire year. There may only be a few hours each night when it is dark enough to see the aurora before the morning twilight begins, gradually washing out the twinkling stars with sunlight. This year, the solstice falls on June 20. In parts of Canada and Alaska, it does not get dark enough at this time of year to see the northern lights, even during major events. When will the aurora be visible again? A minor geomagnetic storm (level 1 of 5) is likely this week, according to NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center. Typically, a geomagnetic storm needs to be at least moderate strength (level 2 of 5) for the aurora to appear across the far northern U.S. under ideal conditions. Additionally, clouds will be a concern across the Northeast, Great Lakes and northern Plains most of the week due to rounds of showers and thunderstorms, which could hinder views of the night sky. There is some good news for stargazers, however. The area of the sun that has been bursting with solar flares continues to be active. Additional eruptions could increase the likelihood of seeing the aurora despite the short nights around the solstice.
Otago Daily Times
5 days ago
- Otago Daily Times
Natural wonders abound
Australian travel writer Sandip Hor discovers there is more to Iceland than the Northern Lights. Upon my return from Iceland, nearly everyone inquired, "Did you witness the Northern Lights?" This question is quite expected for anyone who has visited this North Atlantic island nation, renowned for a breathtaking display of green light ribbons that dance across the sky. Commonly referred to as the Northern Lights, this natural spectacle, scientifically called the Aurora Borealis, occurs when charged solar particles collide with atoms in Earth's upper atmosphere at astonishing speeds, reaching up to 724million kilometres per hour, resulting in luminous emissions that are typically green, although hues of pink and violet may also appear. The phenomenon is generally visible in the Nordic region, spanning areas of Finland, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, Greenland and Canada. Nevertheless, visibility is not guaranteed, as it is influenced by weather conditions and various solar factors. Therefore, witnessing this occurrence is largely a matter of chance, akin to the likelihood of encountering a lion or a tiger in the wildlife reserves of Africa or India. Regrettably, in this case, fortune did not favour me, and I departed from Iceland without experiencing the light show. Nevertheless, there were numerous other natural features of this European country that captivated me, making my week-long visit both unforgettable and immensely fulfilling. For someone like me from Australia, the most extraordinary experience was spending a few days in a completely ice-covered setting where the landscape, as far as I could see, was blanketed in white, due to some unexpected snowfall. It is often said Mother Nature showcases her finest work in Iceland, and I wholeheartedly concur with this sentiment. During my visit, I encountered an array of amazing natural wonders, including vast glaciers, cascading waterfalls, a coastline adorned with black sand, pristine blue lagoons, snow-capped volcanic mountains, extensive moss-covered lava fields and rejuvenating hot springs that are said to add an extra decade to one's life. The island is situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates converge, making it one of the most volcanically active areas on the planet. Home to over 100 volcanoes, some of which are still active, this abundant geothermal energy has significantly influenced not only the nation's rugged terrain but also its life, culture and economy by providing a sustainable and affordable energy source for domestic and industrial usage. In stark contrast to the volcanic activity, Iceland is also home to a substantial number of glaciers, covering around 11% of the country's land area. These glaciers have developed in regions where the average annual temperatures remain below 0°C, allowing for snow accumulation to surpass melting rates. Due to the coexistence of these extreme natural elements — volcanic fire and icy glaciers — the destination is often referred to as the Land of Fire and Ice. After spending some time in the capital, Reykjavik, I embarked on a four-day expedition with Iceland Travel, one of the region's reputed tour operators, exploring the renowned South Coast region, which showcases nearly all the natural forces that affirm the destination's nickname, from fiery volcanoes and geothermal marvels to freezing glaciers and lagoons. The highlights of this extraordinary journey included visiting three magnificent waterfalls in Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Skogafoss, exploring the geothermal valley of Haukadalur, and witnessing the periodic eruptions of the Strokkur geyser, all while strolling around various hot springs, steam vents, and sulfurous mud pots, admiring the presence of famous volcanoes Eyjafjallajökull, Katla and Hekla from a distance, walking on the black sand at the Vakurfjara Beach, posing for a selfie with the glittering icebergs on the Diamond Beach, getting immersed by the beauty of the Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon and finally shaking over all my tiredness with a rejuvenating dip at the Blue Lagoon thermal pool before ending the thrilling and adventurous odyssey. Revered as a shrine of Iceland due to its great geological and historical significance, the Þingvellir National Park was a key stop on our itinerary. Located not far from Reykjavik, it's the place where both the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet, and this particular feature has brought geology to life through sprawling lava fields, rocky canyons and crystal-clear glacial lakes. While the beauty of the surroundings was very camera-friendly, more exciting for me was a rare glimpse of the edges of the two plates. I was told that something like this can't be seen anywhere else in the world. It was also at this site, the early Norse settlers in 930 scripted the maiden page of the nation's history book by opening the world's first democratic parliament which remained in session until 1798. Iceland was uninhabited until Norseman Ingolfur Arnarson discovered the island in 870 during the Viking age and commenced permanent settlement, initially as a "free state", later coming under the rule of the Norwegians and the Danes before becoming independent in 1944. My basic knowledge of Iceland's history was supplemented by visits to various museums in Reykjavik, to the National Museum of Iceland, Reykjavik Maritime Museum and the Saga Museum, where the exhibits provided a deep insight into the Icelandic history from settlement to present day. Reykjavik may be one of the smallest capital cities of Europe, but with a stunning natural setting and a fascinating history rooted in the Viking sagas, it buzzes with a melting pot of influences from the very old to new. About two-thirds of the nation's population of approximately 390,000 live there. The 75m-tall Hallgrimskirkja Church is the city emblem. A view from its summit testified to me the splendor of the city's natural surroundings, dominated by the splashing of the Atlantic waves and overlooked by the snow-covered volcanic mountains at a distance. Another must-visit in the city is the newly opened Volcano Express, which presents a cinematic experience that dives into Iceland's volcanic forces and provides the audience with a rare feel of the power of earthquakes, the rush of flight and freefall and the intense heat of lava which Icelanders have faced in reality. Travel notebook Getting There: Fly Air New Zealand ( from Auckland to London or Amsterdam, and then Iceland Air ( to Reykjavik Stay: Fosshotel Reykjavik ( and Hotel Stracta ( and Hotel Klaustur ( in South Iceland. Tours: For info on tours to Iceland, check Beyond Travels ( or call 0800 550 065.
Newsweek
5 days ago
- Science
- Newsweek
Map Reveals US Blackout After Powerful Solar Flare
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Large parts of the USA suffered a radio blackout due to major activity in space this week. On June 15, North America found itself under a shortwave radio blackout, leading to a loss of signal at frequencies below 20 Megahertz (MHz). Amateur radio operators may have been affected by the signal loss, with commercial radio usually operating at a higher MHz rate. The blackout was caused by a solar flare from the sun, following a growing active region of a sunspot. Solar flares are intense bursts of radiation or light on the sun. They are the most powerful explosions in the solar system, and can contain as much energy as a billion hydrogen bombs, according to NASA. Solar flares are classified according to their intensity, with an M being the second-highest on the scale. NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured the moment of eruption, which has been classed as an M8.3 solar flare—and which almost reached an X-class on the scale. A map showing the areas affected by the solar flare, including the entirety of North America. Inset, an image of the solar flare. A map showing the areas affected by the solar flare, including the entirety of North America. Inset, an image of the solar flare. NOAA/SWPC/NASA Solar flares can affect us on Earth, and radiation from this flare caused a shortwave radio blackout. A map released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) shows the entirety of the United States was affected by the blackout, for MHz at around and under a rate of 20. Much of South America was affected on a lower scale, while Canada and Greenland were affected at the same rate as the US. As well as the radio blackout, the solar flare also hurled a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) into space. These clouds of solar material expand as they sweep through space, and the flank of this CME will hit Earth in the coming days, bringing a chance of geomagnetic storms. A solar flare erupting on June 15, causing the radio blackout. A solar flare erupting on June 15, causing the radio blackout. NASA / Solar Dynamics Observatory Geomagnetic storms caused by CMEs can lead to Aurora Borealis, or the northern lights, lighting up our skies. A previous recent geomagnetic storm prompted the NOAA to forecast a likelihood of Aurora over much of the US on June 13, with Alaska, Idaho, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Washington and Wisconsin predicted to be directly underneath the phenomenon. The northern lights are easiest to spot in clear weather and away from bright lights and light pollution of cities, however stargazers do not need to be directly underneath the phenomenon to view it. As NOAA explains on its website: "The aurora does not need to be directly overhead but can be observed from as much as a 1,000 km [621 miles] away when the aurora is bright and if conditions are right." Do you have a tip on a science story that Newsweek should be covering? Do you have a question about space? Let us know via science@
