Key Takeaways
- The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora, may be visible in Chicago this week due to a geomagnetic storm.
- A coronal mass ejection (CME) is expected to enter the Earth’s atmosphere, causing the aurora to be visible in many northern states.
- The Chicago area is projected to experience frigid temperatures and snowfall, with temperatures dropping to as low as 13 degrees by Saturday.
- Warming centers are available for those in need of a safe space to warm up, and can be found by calling 311 or visiting the city’s website.
- To see the aurora, it’s recommended to have an unobstructed view of the sky, away from city lights.
Introduction to the Aurora
Chicagoans may be in for a rare treat this week, as the Northern Lights, also known as the aurora, may be visible in the city due to a geomagnetic storm. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a geomagnetic storm watch has been issued for Tuesday, resulting from a coronal mass ejection (CME). This phenomenon occurs when a large amount of solar matter and magnetic fields erupt from the sun and enter the Earth’s atmosphere, causing the aurora to be visible in many northern states.
Understanding the Geomagnetic Storm
The CME is expected to impact the Earth’s atmosphere early to midday on Tuesday, making the aurora visible to many northern states. To attempt to see the aurora, it’s essential to have an unobstructed view of the sky, away from city lights. The NOAA recommends finding a location with minimal light pollution to increase the chances of seeing the aurora. The full-halo coronal mass ejection is associated with an M8.1 flare from Region 4299, which is expected to cause periods of G3 (Strong) geomagnetic storming.
Weather Forecast
In addition to the geomagnetic storm, the Chicago area is projected to experience frigid temperatures and snowfall. According to the National Weather Service, the temperature is expected to drop sharply in the latter half of the week. On Monday, the high temperature was 26 degrees, with a 20 percent chance of snow after midnight. The temperature is expected to warm up slightly on Tuesday and Wednesday, with highs of 38 and 37 degrees, respectively. However, a low-pressure system will bring cold temperatures back on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, with highs of 27, 24, and 13 degrees, respectively.
Warming Centers
For those in need of a safe space to warm up, the city of Chicago has warming centers available. These centers are open when temperatures are at 32 degrees or below and are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The locations of the warming centers include the Englewood Center, North Area Center, Garfield Center, South Chicago Center, King Center, and Trina Davila Center. The Garfield Center is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and can connect people to emergency shelter. Additionally, older adults can visit one of the city’s 21 senior centers for warmth and safety.
Staying Safe and Warm
To stay warm and safe during the cold weather, it’s essential to take precautions. The city of Chicago recommends checking on vulnerable neighbors, such as the elderly and those with disabilities, to ensure they have access to warmth and safety. It’s also crucial to dress warmly, including wearing layers, hats, and gloves, and to stay indoors during extreme cold. For more tips on how to stay warm and safe, visit the city’s website or call 311 to find the warming center nearest to you. By taking these precautions and staying informed, Chicagoans can stay safe and enjoy the rare opportunity to see the Northern Lights.