Northern lights could appear in New England as solar flares explode off sun

BOSTON - Forecasters believe that there is a legitimate chance for northern lights sightings in New England over the next few nights.

For the second time in just a few months, the Earth is under a geomagnetic storm warning. It sounds scary but in reality, all this means is that the northern lights, also known as the the aurora borealis, may be visible much farther south (in latitude) than what is typical, including right here in New England!

Northern lights explained

Auroras are very difficult to predict, much more so than forecasting the weather. Over the last several days, there have been several coronal mass ejections (CME) from the surface of the sun.

More importantly, these plasma ejections have occurred in the direction of Earth. Several sunspots on the sun's surface are currently facing in our direction.

The difficulty lies in the distance from the Earth to the sun (93 million miles) and the lack of sensors between here and there. Scientists can see the solar flares occurring, but then have very little ability to monitor them as they travel the empty space to our planet. The farthest piece of measuring equipment is about one million miles from Earth. By the time the CME arrives there, we only have an hour or less to evaluate it and warn of any potential auroras or magnetic field issues.

Northern lights tonight Massachusetts

Current forecasts have the highest aurora potential Tuesday and Tuesday night. However, scientists are unsure of the strength and timing of the arrival.

There is a possibility that several of these ejections may have combined into what is called a "cannibal CME." This occurs when subsequent CME's move faster than the first and essentially combine to form a bigger and stronger mass of particles, raising the potential level of auroral activity on Earth.

The bottom line is we just have to wait and see. It does appear as though Tuesday night has decent aurora potential as far south as New England. But, the timing has to be just right.

How to see the northern lights

To give yourself the best chance of seeing the northern lights, try to find a dark place, away from light pollution. You should also try to find a view of as much open sky as possible, free from obstruction. 

Of course, none of this matters if there isn't a clear sky for viewing. There will be less clouds around Tuesday night than Monday night, but the conditions will not be totally clear in all of southern New England.

My suggestion would be to check out the cloud cover overhead in the evening. If you have clear skies and live in an area without much artificial light pollution, head out outside and take a look a few times before bed.

Also, stay tuned to WBZ-TV, WBZ.com and CBS News Boston for updates as we track the arrival and strength of those CME's to Earth.

Northern lights Boston photos

For those who remember and witnessed the amazing northern lights display back on May 10th, don't get your hopes up. It is very unlikely that Tuesday night will come anywhere near to matching that show. But you never know!

If you happen to catch a glimpse, we would love to see your pictures! You can share them on WBZ.com or send them to weather@wbztv.com.