Aurora Borealis May Be Visible in Oregon Tonight

Possibly Historic Display Expected

Chance to See Northern Lights in the Pacific Northwest

PORTLAND, Ore. - Oregonians may have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the aurora borealis tonight, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). A strong solar storm is directed towards Earth, and is expected to produce a geomagnetic storm that could create a visible aurora display as far south as Oregon.

The aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, is a natural light display in the Earth's sky, primarily visible at high latitude regions. It is caused by the interaction of charged particles from the solar wind with the Earth's magnetic field. The particles enter the atmosphere and collide with gas particles, causing the ionization or excitation of these particles. The ionized particles return to their ground state, releasing energy in the form of photons.

The best time to see the aurora borealis is typically during the winter months, when the nights are longer and the sky is darker. However, strong solar storms can produce aurora displays that are visible even in the summer months. The last time a major aurora display was visible in Oregon was in 2015.

Those who hope to see the aurora borealis tonight should find a location with clear skies and minimal light pollution. The aurora is most likely to be visible in the northern sky, but it may also be visible in other directions. The display is expected to begin around midnight and last for several hours.