ST. LOUIS — This weekend’s weather forecast brings mild temperatures and clear skies, potentially offering a rare opportunity for a glimpse of the Northern Lights near St. Louis. A significant solar flare that occurred Thursday has increased the chance of seeing the of auroras in the region.
Saturday evening is the best potential viewing time, with clear skies. However, it’s important to note that the chance of seeing the Northern Lights this far south is slight.
For the best chance of viewing, experts recommend seeking locations away from city lights. Northern areas, such as near Mark Twain Lake or towards Peoria, may offer better visibility. Weather forecasters use the K-index to determine the likelihood of aurora visibility; a high K-index (7-9) indicates a stronger likelihood of the Northern Lights being visible further south.
While sightings this far south are uncommon and not guaranteed, the combination of clear skies and recent solar activity provides a unique opportunity for potential aurora viewing this weekend.
