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Tag: Northern Lights

  • Heads up Monday night! Aurora may be visible in North Carolina

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    The northern lights may once again be seen in North Carolina Monday night. 

    Tony Rice, NASA ambassador and WRAL contributor, first brought you this potential Sunday night.

    As of Monday, NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center says that the geomagnetic storm directed toward Earth could reach G4 status. 

    A geomagnetic storm is what results from a coronal mass ejection (aka. solar flare) interacting with Earth’s magnetic field. The stronger that interaction, the higher ‘G’ status/stronger geomagnetic storm and the farther south the aurora could be seen.

    Rice tells us, “The magnetometer image showing a clear halo from the CME gives some confidence that we’ll see something.”

    He cautions, however, that we emphasize potential rather than guarantee. You think weather forecasting on Earth is hard? Try predicting space weather!

    Based on previous experience, however, a G4 storm usually leads to the aurora being seen in North Carolina. 

    Expectations of it dancing over your head like you’d see in Canada, Alaska, Iceland, Scandinavia, etc. should be limited, though. 

    Your best bet is to get a clear view of the northern horizon, and turn your phone on Night Mode. Some projections show 11 p.m. being the peak. If you’re dressed for the cold, try going out earlier. You never know!

    If you happen to get any good photos, send them to Report It.

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  • Passenger captures extraordinary “once in a lifetime” view from plane

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    A video capturing an incredible northern lights scene from the sky has gone viral on TikTok.

    The clip was posted by Christian H. Nielsen (@christiannielsenmedia) and has amassed over 234,000 views since it was shared on November 13. The caption says the footage was taken “on the night between November 11th and 12th,” while the poster was flying home from Iceland, “just as multiple solar flares had hit Earth’s atmosphere, causing a ‘severe geomagnetic storm’…”

    The footage begins with an aerial view of a night sky through the window of a moving plane, as text overlaid on it says: “…I was hoping to see the northern lights.”

    The text adds: “At first I couldn’t see much…but then colors started to show, and I pulled out my camera (X-T3, handheld, 16 mm, f2.8 ss1”, ISO4000).”

    The footage later shows an ethereal display of green and red northern lights sprawled across the sky above clouds.

    Loading tiktok content…

    A caption shared with the post reads: “Once in a lifetime? Probably…I feel very lucky. Peak aurora year. Peak aurora month. Window seat facing north. I usually share my then & now photos, but this was too extraordinary not to share…”

    The northern lights, also known as aurora borealis, are the result of electrons colliding with the upper reaches of the Earth’s atmosphere.

    “In these collisions, the electrons transfer their energy to the atmosphere thus exciting the atoms and molecules to higher energy states. When they relax back down to lower energy states, they release their energy in the form of light. This is similar to how a neon light works,” says the U.S. Space Weather Prediction Center of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). 

    Last week, the NOAA issued a G4 geomagnetic storm watch—the second-highest level—due to three recent solar ejections. On November 11, the northern lights were visible across much of the United States, reaching as far south as Alabama and New Mexico. 

    The northern lights can often be viewed “somewhere on Earth” from either just after sunset or just before sunrise. They are not visible during daylight hours.  

    The northern lights usually form from around 50 to 310 miles above the Earth’s surface, but can also be seen from as much as 620 miles away “when the aurora is bright and if conditions are right,” says the NOAA. 

    The Space Weather Prediction Center said that the Earth’s magnetic field “guides the electrons such that the aurora forms two ovals approximately centered at the magnetic poles. During major geomagnetic storms these ovals expand away from the poles such that aurora can be seen over most of the United States.” 

    “When space weather activity increases and more frequent and larger storms and substorms occur, the aurora extends equatorward. During large events, the aurora can be observed as far south as the US, Europe, and Asia,” the center said. 

    Newsweek has contacted the original poster via TikTok. This video has not been independently verified.

    Do you have a travel-related video or story to share? Let us know via life@newsweek.com and your story could be featured on Newsweek.

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  • Aurora dazzle DC area with northern lights – WTOP News

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    Sky watchers in the D.C. region may get another chance to see aurora Wednesday night after a dazzling show of northern lights Tuesday.

    On Tuesday night into the early hours Wednesday morning, sky watchers were treated to dazzling and colorful aurora throughout North America, including in the D.C. region.

    Listeners witnessed the sky show starting after 8 p.m., as seen in numerous pictures sent to WTOP.

    The aurora over Great Falls on Tuesday night.
    (Courtesy Jared Angle)

    Courtesy Jared Angle

    Northern Lights on Wednesday night at Ida Lee, Leesburg, Virginia.
    (Courtesy William Dawe)

    Courtesy William Dawe

    Aurora lights in the sky
    Aurora over Sumerduck, Virginia, on Tuesday night.
    (Courtesy Mark Burge)

    Courtesy Mark Burge

    faint aurora in the sky
    The northern lights were visible along Randolph Road in Rockville around 9 p.m. Tuesday evening.
    (WTOP/Dave Dildine)

    WTOP/Dave Dildine

    northern lights in the sky
    Northern lights are seen in Leesburg, Virginia, on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025.
    (Courtesy William Dawe)

    Courtesy William Dawe

    aurora in the sky
    Aurora seen in Stafford County, Virginia, on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025.
    (Courtesy @NoZoup/X)

    Courtesy @NoZoup/X

    north lights in the sky among the clouds
    Amid the clouds bright and multicolored aurora adorn the Northern horizon.
    (WTOP/Greg Redfern)

    WTOP/Greg Redfern

    northern lights in the sky
    Aurora is seen in Northern Minnesota on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025.
    (Courtesy Kelsey Pinckney)

    Courtesy Kelsey Pinckney

    Fueling the sky spectacle was a powerful Level G4 (Severe) geomagnetic storm that lasted for hours. Two videos from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center explained what was occurring at the onset and later on.

    The center issued a forecast Wednesday morning, which predicted: “G3 levels are currently being observed; G4 levels are still expected.”

    Clear Sky Chart (input your location) is very useful to check sky conditions as well as the NOAA and space related social media sites, EarthSky.org and space.com for aurora viewing updates. There also are aurora apps available as well to help you; I use Aurora Pro and Glendale App.

    Your camera and/or smartphone could have significantly improved your chances of detecting and imaging the aurora due to their digital sensors. Even if you did not see aurora, if you photographed the northern horizon, you may have gotten image of them.

    Using a camera or smartphone that can take exposures of several seconds — including using “Night Sky” or “Low Light” settings if your camera has them — gives you your best shot. Steady the camera or use a tripod for best image results. The camera can capture aurora that your eyes did not.

    Good luck, aurora chasers, let’s hope and be ready for another sky spectacle.

    Follow my daily blog to keep up with the latest news in astronomy and space exploration. You can email me at skyguyinva@gmail.com.

    Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.

    © 2025 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

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  • Capturing the northern lights: How to take the best photos of auroras

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    Multiple parts of the United States were treated to mesmerizing colors from the aurora borealis, or northern lights, in the sky Tuesday night. This is because of a severe geomagnetic storm triggered by solar flares. Related video above: Weather Talk — How do I know if we can see the Northern Lights?The lights can appear faint when looked at with the naked eye, but with the right camera settings, the different colors and waves can be seen in photos.Forecasters say there is still a chance that some regions would get to catch the lights on Wednesday night. Here’s how to take the best photos of them:Using nighttime picture-taking settingsMost newer versions of iPhone and Android phones have a setting for taking pictures in low light. This slows the shutter speed, allowing more light in and taking a clearer picture. Here’s how to adjust settings on iPhone and Android devices like Samsung phones or Google Pixel phones. It’s important to hold your phone steady or use a tripod so your image does not end up blurry.Video below: Check out these dazzling photos of Tuesday night’s northern lights in IowaThere’s an app for that, tooThere are also apps available that are specifically designed to help you take pictures of the northern lights. Check the app stores on your iPhones or Android devices.Be in the right place at the right timeArtificial light pollution can decrease your chances of catching the best colors, so it is best to get away from cities and into rural areas for picture-taking. There will be more visibility the farther north you can get. Any time after it gets dark outside and before midnight will be the best opportunity. Related video below: What causes the colors you see with the northern lights?

    DES MOINES, Iowa —

    Multiple parts of the United States were treated to mesmerizing colors from the aurora borealis, or northern lights, in the sky Tuesday night. This is because of a severe geomagnetic storm triggered by solar flares.

    Related video above: Weather Talk — How do I know if we can see the Northern Lights?

    The lights can appear faint when looked at with the naked eye, but with the right camera settings, the different colors and waves can be seen in photos.

    Forecasters say there is still a chance that some regions would get to catch the lights on Wednesday night. Here’s how to take the best photos of them:

    Using nighttime picture-taking settings

    Most newer versions of iPhone and Android phones have a setting for taking pictures in low light. This slows the shutter speed, allowing more light in and taking a clearer picture. Here’s how to adjust settings on iPhone and Android devices like Samsung phones or Google Pixel phones.

    It’s important to hold your phone steady or use a tripod so your image does not end up blurry.

    Video below: Check out these dazzling photos of Tuesday night’s northern lights in Iowa

    There’s an app for that, too

    There are also apps available that are specifically designed to help you take pictures of the northern lights. Check the app stores on your iPhones or Android devices.

    Be in the right place at the right time

    Artificial light pollution can decrease your chances of catching the best colors, so it is best to get away from cities and into rural areas for picture-taking.

    There will be more visibility the farther north you can get. Any time after it gets dark outside and before midnight will be the best opportunity.

    Related video below: What causes the colors you see with the northern lights?

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  • Capturing the northern lights: How to take the best photos of auroras

    [ad_1]

    Multiple parts of the United States were treated to mesmerizing colors from the aurora borealis, or northern lights, in the sky Tuesday night. This is because of a severe geomagnetic storm triggered by solar flares. Related video above: Weather Talk — How do I know if we can see the Northern Lights?The lights can appear faint when looked at with the naked eye, but with the right camera settings, the different colors and waves can be seen in photos.Forecasters say there is still a chance that some regions would get to catch the lights on Wednesday night. Here’s how to take the best photos of them:Using nighttime picture-taking settingsMost newer versions of iPhone and Android phones have a setting for taking pictures in low light. This slows the shutter speed, allowing more light in and taking a clearer picture. Here’s how to adjust settings on iPhone and Android devices like Samsung phones or Google Pixel phones. It’s important to hold your phone steady or use a tripod so your image does not end up blurry.Video below: Check out these dazzling photos of Tuesday night’s northern lights in IowaThere’s an app for that, tooThere are also apps available that are specifically designed to help you take pictures of the northern lights. Check the app stores on your iPhones or Android devices.Be in the right place at the right timeArtificial light pollution can decrease your chances of catching the best colors, so it is best to get away from cities and into rural areas for picture-taking. There will be more visibility the farther north you can get. Any time after it gets dark outside and before midnight will be the best opportunity. Related video below: What causes the colors you see with the northern lights?

    DES MOINES, Iowa —

    Multiple parts of the United States were treated to mesmerizing colors from the aurora borealis, or northern lights, in the sky Tuesday night. This is because of a severe geomagnetic storm triggered by solar flares.

    Related video above: Weather Talk — How do I know if we can see the Northern Lights?

    The lights can appear faint when looked at with the naked eye, but with the right camera settings, the different colors and waves can be seen in photos.

    Forecasters say there is still a chance that some regions would get to catch the lights on Wednesday night. Here’s how to take the best photos of them:

    Using nighttime picture-taking settings

    Most newer versions of iPhone and Android phones have a setting for taking pictures in low light. This slows the shutter speed, allowing more light in and taking a clearer picture. Here’s how to adjust settings on iPhone and Android devices like Samsung phones or Google Pixel phones.

    It’s important to hold your phone steady or use a tripod so your image does not end up blurry.

    Video below: Check out these dazzling photos of Tuesday night’s northern lights in Iowa

    There’s an app for that, too

    There are also apps available that are specifically designed to help you take pictures of the northern lights. Check the app stores on your iPhones or Android devices.

    Be in the right place at the right time

    Artificial light pollution can decrease your chances of catching the best colors, so it is best to get away from cities and into rural areas for picture-taking.

    There will be more visibility the farther north you can get. Any time after it gets dark outside and before midnight will be the best opportunity.

    Related video below: What causes the colors you see with the northern lights?

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  • Northern lights spotted in skies across the U.S. See the photos.

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    Northern lights were seen in skies across the U.S. overnight due to energy coming from severe solar storms. 

    The aurora borealis — skies lighting up in stunning shades of blue, pink and green — was spotted in states spanning from Minnesota and Massachusetts to Florida, Colorado and Texas. 

    The sun has spurted out multiple bursts of energy over the past few days called coronal mass ejections, or CMEs. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued a G4 — or severe — geomagnetic storm watch in response to the CMEs, which are huge bubbles of coronal plasma that the sun occasionally ejects, NASA says. The highest geomagnetic storm level is G5, which is considered extreme.  

    Geomagnetic storms can cause disruptions to critical communication infrastructure, and NOAA had said they could make the northern lights visible in even the southern U.S. starting on Tuesday night. More northern lights could be seen again on Wednesday night in some areas. 

    See the photos

    The aurora borealis lights up the night sky over Monroe, Wisconsin, on Nov. 11, 2025, during one of the strongest solar storms in decades. The geomagnetic event pushes the northern lights deep into the continental United States, with vibrant pink, red, and green hues illuminating rural farmsteads and open fields across the Midwest.

    Ross Harried/NurPhoto via Getty Images


    Solar Storm Lights Up Wisconsin Farmland In Rare Aurora Spectacle

    The aurora borealis lights up the night sky over Monroe, Wisconsin, on Nov. 11, 2025, during one of the strongest solar storms in decades. 

    Ross Harried/NurPhoto via Getty Images


    The northern lights observed in New Jersey

    The northern lights observed in the sky over Morris County, captured using long-exposure photography in New Jersey, U.S., on Nov. 12, 2025.

    Lokman Vural Elibol/Anadolu via Getty Images


    Aurora Borealis Lights Up Indiana Sky During Geomagnetic Storm

    The aurora borealis glows above along Maple Grove Road in rural Monroe County as a strong geomagnetic storm from recent solar activity pushes the Northern Lights unusually far south on Nov. 12, 2025, in Bloomington, Indiana. 

    Jeremy Hogan/Getty Images


    Norther Lights In Northern California

    People watch the northern lights at China Camp State Park in San Rafael, California, on Nov. 11, 2025.

    Stephen Lam/San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images


    Northern lights, aurora borealis seen in Geyserville, California

    The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are seen above a vineyard in Geyserville, Calif., on Nov. 11, 2025.

    Alvin A.H. Jornada/San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images


    Northern lights dazzle night sky over Anchorage, Alaska

    The northern lights observed in the sky over Anchorage, captured using long-exposure photography in Alaska, U.S. on Oct. 18, 2025. 

    Hasan Akba/Anadolu via Getty Images


    Norther Lights In Northern California

    A photographer photographs the northern lights as fog rolls into San Francisco Bay at China Camp State Park in San Rafael, Calif., Nov. 11, 2025.

    Stephen Lam/San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images


    The Associated Press

    contributed to this report.

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  • Round 2: Northern Lights may shine again in Wednesday night sky

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    The Aurora borealis put on an impressive showing in portions of the U.S. and Canada Tuesday night, and there’s potential for it to strike again Wednesday. 

    Followers from as far north as Nova Scotia to as far south as Florida sent me photos Tuesday night!

    >> Your photos of the Northern Lights

    You can do so too by submitting your photos through wral.com/reportit.

    What’s causing the aurora to be visible this far south?

    As a refresher to Tuesday’s article, let’s talk about Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs). These ejections – or solar flares – head toward Earth. 

    In this case, there are a series of them – and they are tough to predict, according to Tony Rice. Once they interact with Earth’s upper atmosphere, the aurora can be seen.

    The stronger the geomagnetic storm (interaction between CME and Earth), the farther south the aurora can glow.

    Will we see it again Wednesday night?

    There is a good chance of the aurora being seen again, but there is a caveat.

    NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center and NASA say an even stronger CME is heading toward Earth, but it’s expected to make impact around midday. 

    So, we’ll need the severity of the geomagnetic storm to maintain until after sunset. If that happens, it’s game on!

    You’ll need a clear view of the northern sky with minimal-to-no light pollution. Take your smart phone’s camera, and put it on night mode with exposure set to 10s.

    Should the storm maintain severity, the Aurora would be seen again in North Carolina with visibility potentially extended south toward the U.S.’ Gulf Coast.

    Why are we seeing auroras more often?

    Science and technology are both the cause. 

    The sun is in a “maximum” in its cycle, where sun spots are more active and more flares are being ejected. By that logic, alone, you have more chances to see the Aurora. 

    The Aurora is also more commonly seen closer to an Equinox rather than closer to a Solstice. 

    The technology aspect comes down to our smart phones. The long exposure settings that we now have access to allow us to photograph these more often than recent years. 

    So again, if you do get good photos – we want to see them and share them!

    Send those through wral.com/reportit.

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  • What are northern lights? Here’s what to know about auroras.

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    Space weather forecasters issued an alert on Tuesday for incoming severe solar storms that could produce colorful northern lights and temporarily disrupt communications.And the aurora borealis didn’t disappoint, showing up in various parts of the country.In the video player above: Photos show auroras seen in the skies of Nelson County and Virginia Beach, Virginia; South Dakota; Iowa; and Minnesota on Tuesday night.In the past few days, the sun has burped out several bursts of energy called coronal mass ejections that, earlier, forecasters said could reach Earth Tuesday night and early Wednesday. Forecasters warned that geomagnetic storms could disrupt radio and GPS communications, according to forecasters with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.How bright the auroras were and how far south they were visible were dependent on when the solar bursts got here and how they interacted with Earth’s atmosphere. How northern lights happenThe sun is at the maximum phase of its 11-year activity cycle, making the light displays more common and widespread. Colorful northern lights have decorated night skies in unexpected places and space weather experts say there are more auroras still to come.Aurora displays known as the northern and southern lights are commonly visible near the poles, where charged particles from the sun interact with Earth’s atmosphere.Skygazers are spotting the lights deeper into the United States and Europe because the sun is going through a major face-lift. Every 11 years, its poles swap places, causing magnetic twists and tangles along the way.Last year, the strongest geomagnetic storm in two decades slammed Earth, producing light displays across the Northern Hemisphere. And soon afterward, a powerful solar storm dazzled skygazers far from the Arctic Circle when dancing lights appeared in unexpected places, including Germany, the United Kingdom, New England and New York City.The sun’s active spurt is expected to last at least through the end of this year, though when solar activity will peak won’t be known until months after the fact, according to NASA and NOAA.How solar storms affect EarthSolar storms can bring more than colorful lights to Earth.When fast-moving particles and plasma slam into Earth’s magnetic field, they can temporarily disrupt the power grid. Space weather can also interfere with air traffic control, radio and satellites in orbit. Severe storms are capable of scrambling other radio and GPS communications.In 1859, a severe solar storm triggered auroras as far south as Hawaii and set telegraph lines on fire in a rare event. And a 1972 solar storm may have detonated magnetic U.S. sea mines off the coast of Vietnam.Space weather experts aren’t able to predict a solar storm months in advance. Instead, they alert relevant parties to prepare in the days before a solar outburst hits Earth.How to see aurorasNorthern lights forecasts can be found on NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center website or an aurora forecasting app.Consider aurora-watching in a quiet, dark area away from city lights. Experts recommend skygazing from a local or national park. And check the weather forecast because clouds can cover up the spectacle entirely.Taking a picture with a smartphone camera may also reveal hints of the aurora that aren’t visible to the naked eye.

    (VIDEO ABOVE: Tommy Stafford, John Mitchell, Matthew Dux, Matt Beatty, Ali Roux Gaudette via CNN Newsource) —

    Space weather forecasters issued an alert on Tuesday for incoming severe solar storms that could produce colorful northern lights and temporarily disrupt communications.

    And the aurora borealis didn’t disappoint, showing up in various parts of the country.

    In the video player above: Photos show auroras seen in the skies of Nelson County and Virginia Beach, Virginia; South Dakota; Iowa; and Minnesota on Tuesday night.

    In the past few days, the sun has burped out several bursts of energy called coronal mass ejections that, earlier, forecasters said could reach Earth Tuesday night and early Wednesday. Forecasters warned that geomagnetic storms could disrupt radio and GPS communications, according to forecasters with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

    How bright the auroras were and how far south they were visible were dependent on when the solar bursts got here and how they interacted with Earth’s atmosphere.

    How northern lights happen

    The sun is at the maximum phase of its 11-year activity cycle, making the light displays more common and widespread. Colorful northern lights have decorated night skies in unexpected places and space weather experts say there are more auroras still to come.

    Aurora displays known as the northern and southern lights are commonly visible near the poles, where charged particles from the sun interact with Earth’s atmosphere.

    Skygazers are spotting the lights deeper into the United States and Europe because the sun is going through a major face-lift. Every 11 years, its poles swap places, causing magnetic twists and tangles along the way.

    Last year, the strongest geomagnetic storm in two decades slammed Earth, producing light displays across the Northern Hemisphere. And soon afterward, a powerful solar storm dazzled skygazers far from the Arctic Circle when dancing lights appeared in unexpected places, including Germany, the United Kingdom, New England and New York City.

    The sun’s active spurt is expected to last at least through the end of this year, though when solar activity will peak won’t be known until months after the fact, according to NASA and NOAA.

    How solar storms affect Earth

    Solar storms can bring more than colorful lights to Earth.

    When fast-moving particles and plasma slam into Earth’s magnetic field, they can temporarily disrupt the power grid. Space weather can also interfere with air traffic control, radio and satellites in orbit. Severe storms are capable of scrambling other radio and GPS communications.

    In 1859, a severe solar storm triggered auroras as far south as Hawaii and set telegraph lines on fire in a rare event. And a 1972 solar storm may have detonated magnetic U.S. sea mines off the coast of Vietnam.

    Space weather experts aren’t able to predict a solar storm months in advance. Instead, they alert relevant parties to prepare in the days before a solar outburst hits Earth.

    How to see auroras

    Northern lights forecasts can be found on NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center website or an aurora forecasting app.

    Consider aurora-watching in a quiet, dark area away from city lights. Experts recommend skygazing from a local or national park. And check the weather forecast because clouds can cover up the spectacle entirely.

    Taking a picture with a smartphone camera may also reveal hints of the aurora that aren’t visible to the naked eye.

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  • PHOTOS | Viewers share images of aurora borealis across Northern California

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    Portions of Northern California were treated to a rare spectacle, as the aurora borealis lit up the night sky.

    The dazzling display comes after the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center on Tuesday issued a severe weather geomagnetic storm watch.

    The potential severe geomagnetic storms could disrupt radio and GPS communications, and potentially cause auroras to be visible across much of the northern U.S., and as far south as Alabama and Northern California, NOAA said. Read more here.

    Several KCRA 3 viewers shared their view of the northern lights. If you would like to share a photo, submit here.

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  • Northern lights seen over Minnesota: Nov. 11, 2025

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    Minnesotans got a great view of the northern lights Tuesday night.

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    Riley Moser

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  • Mexican Food And Marijuana

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    From fiery tacos to creamy guacamole here how marijuana enhances Mexican cuisine and tips on the perfect strain for your meal.

    Cannabis enthusiasts and food lovers alike have long known marijuana can heighten the senses, making ordinary meals feel extraordinary. And when it comes to pairing cannabis with cuisine, what is better than Mexican food and marijuana.  Few options excite the palate quite like rich, spicy and occasionally heat. From flavor-bursting tacos to creamy guacamole, the vibrant flavors of Mexican dishes interact uniquely with marijuana, creating a culinary experience both satisfying and unforgettable.

    RELATED: Does Comfort Food Actually Help

    The combination of cannabis and Mexican food isn’t just about indulgence—it’s about the science of flavor. Spicy foods, like jalapeño-studded salsas or chipotle-infused tacos, can intensify the effects of marijuana. Capsaicin, the compound giving chili peppers their heat, triggers endorphins in the body, which can enhance the euphoric and relaxing sensations of cannabis. Meanwhile, fatty ingredients common in Mexican cooking, such as cheese, avocado, and sour cream, can help THC—the active compound in marijuana—bind more efficiently in the body, potentially creating a deeper, longer-lasting experience.

    For those experiencing the classic “munchies,” Mexican cuisine is an ideal choice. The combination of textures—crispy tortillas, tender meats, and fresh, crunchy vegetables—satisfies cravings on multiple sensory levels. Dishes like loaded nachos, enchiladas, and street-style tacos offer both comfort and excitement, ensuring every bite keeps the taste buds engaged while complementing the heightened senses cannabis brings.

    Some cannabis enthusiasts even select strains to pair specifically with their Mexican meal. Fruity, uplifting strains like Blue Dream or Pineapple Express can enhance lighter dishes such as ceviche or fish tacos, accentuating citrus and fresh flavors. On the other hand, earthy, relaxing strains like Northern Lights or OG Kush may pair better with heartier, spice-heavy foods like chiles rellenos or carne asada, allowing the warmth and depth of the dish to meld with the mellowing effects of the strain.

    RELATED: Certain Foods And Drinks Can Trigger A Bad Mood

    Beyond flavor, the cultural synergy between Mexican cuisine and cannabis is intriguing. Both have histories of social enjoyment and communal sharing. Tacos, tamales, and margaritas can turn any cannabis session into a lively gathering, encouraging conversation and celebration.

    Whether it’s the tangy zest of salsa, the creamy richness of guacamole, or the fiery kick of a habanero, Mexican food provides the perfect canvas for cannabis enthusiasts to explore taste, aroma, and sensation. The next time you’re planning a night of culinary indulgence, consider pairing your favorite strain with a plate of authentic Mexican cuisine—it’s a combination promising both satisfaction and delight.

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    Sarah Johns

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  • Northern lights might be visible across 18 states tonight

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    The northern lights may return to the night sky over Canada and parts of the United States tonight, forecasters said.

    An eruption from the sun, known as a coronal mass ejection, occurred over the weekend and is expected to impact the Earth’s magnetic field late Monday into early Tuesday, NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center said. When it happens, it will set off a colorful display of the aurora borealis.

    A view of the Milky Way as Northern Lights were visible at Lake Berryessa in Napa Valley, California, United States on June 3, 2025.

    Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu via Getty Images


    People in 18 U.S. states could see the green or red glow of the aurora in the sky Monday night.

    According to weather forecasters, the upcoming light show is not expected to be as significant as those seen across the sky in 2024, but for some, it will be one of the best opportunities to see the lights since the spring.

    What are the northern lights?

    Auroras, displays known as the northern and southern lights, are commonly visible near the poles, where charged particles from the sun interact with Earth’s atmosphere.

    Geomagnetic Storms Bring Northern Lights To Canadian Skies

    The Aurora borealis, commonly known as the northern lights, is seen at Cleveland Dam Park in North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

    Andrew Chin / Getty Images


    Every 11 years, its poles swap places, causing magnetic twists and tangles along the way. The sun’s active spurt is expected to last at least through the end of this year.

    In spring 2024, the strongest geomagnetic storm in two decades slammed Earth, producing spectacular light displays across the Northern Hemisphere. Last fall, a powerful solar storm produced dancing lights far from the Arctic Circle.

    Where will the auroras be visible tonight?

    According to NOAA’s Kp index forecast, the geomagnetic storm is expected to peak somewhere between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. ET on Tuesday.

    tonights-static-viewline-forecast-1.jpg

    This map shows where the northern lights may be visible across the northern U.S. on September 1 and September 2.

    NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center


    Based on NOAA’s prediction map, the northern lights could be visible in:

    1. Alaska
    2. Montana
    3. North Dakota
    4. Minnesota
    5. Wisconsin
    6. Michigan
    7. Maine
    8. South Dakota
    9. Vermont
    10. New Hampshire
    11. Idaho
    12. Washington
    13. Oregon
    14. New York
    15. Wyoming
    16. Iowa
    17. Nebraska
    18. Illinois

    How to see auroras

    Consider aurora-watching in a quiet, dark area away from city lights. Experts recommend skygazing from a local or national park. And check the weather forecast because clouds can cover up the spectacle entirely.

    Lucia I Suarez Sang

    Lucia Suarez Sang is an associate managing editor at CBSNews.com. Previously, Lucia was the director of digital content at FOX61 News in Connecticut and has previously written for outlets including FoxNews.com, Fox News Latino and the Rutland Herald.

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  • Millions see the northern lights in the U.S.

    Millions see the northern lights in the U.S.

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    Millions see the northern lights in the U.S. – CBS News


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    Most think of the northern lights as a phenomenon often visible in places like Canada, Norway or Iceland. But, tens of millions in the U.S. got a glimpse of the magnificent nature show this week. Jericka Duncan has more.

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  • What are the northern lights?

    What are the northern lights?

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    What are the northern lights? – CBS News


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    Many Americans were able to spot the northern lights Thursday and may have another chance to do so Friday as the aurora borealis remains visible. CBS News Bay Area meteorologist Zoe Mintz breaks down the phenomenon and also looks at the latest U.S. forecast.

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  • North Texas Northern Lights Captured During Solar Storm

    North Texas Northern Lights Captured During Solar Storm

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    It seems as though 2024 might go down as one of the more eventful years for North Texans who like to keep their eyes on the skies. The April total solar eclipse was indeed a spectacular sight to behold, and people in North Texas had a somewhat rare chance, although not as rare as a total solar eclipse, to catch a glimpse of the northern lights in May…

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    Kelly Dearmore

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  • Using night mode on your phone can help capture photos of the northern lights. Here’s how to turn it on.

    Using night mode on your phone can help capture photos of the northern lights. Here’s how to turn it on.

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    How to use night mode to get good photos of the northern lights


    How to use night mode to get good photos of the northern lights

    02:10

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. (KDKA) — The northern lights are expected to be visible again throughout parts of the United States on Friday night. 

    When the northern lights, or the aurora borealis, are visible, the best way to see them is to find a dark spot away from bright lights, allow time to enable your eyes adjust to the darkness and look toward the north.  

    The northern lights show up best in photos.

    Here’s how to use night mode on your phone’s camera to try to capture photos of the colorful auroras.   

    How do I turn on night mode on an iPhone? 

    If you are using an iPhone, Apple says the default settings will have night mode turn on automatically “when the camera detects a low-light environment.”

    When night mode is active, an icon will turn yellow in the top left corner of your screen.

    A number will show up next to that icon showing you how long it will take for the photo to take. 

    You can adjust how long the exposure will last by tapping the arrow that shows up above the viewfinder.

    kdka-iphone-samsung-galaxy-night-mode-settings.png
    Side-by-side screenshots show how an iPhone and how a Samsung Galaxy phone can enable night mode, which can help capture better photos of the northern lights.

    How do I turn on night mode on an Android phone? 

    Starting night mode on an Android device will depend on the type of device you have. 

    On a Samsung Galaxy device, a yellow moon icon will pop up in the bottom right of your screen. On a Pixel device, you can tap Night Light, then tap Capture and hold your phone still for a few seconds. In the Google Camera app, you can turn Night mode on by tapping settings and turning the mode on or off. 

    Will the northern lights be visible where I live?

    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center has issued its “Aurora Forecast” for Friday with numerous parts of the United States in the range of potentially being able to see the bright auroras of the northern lights. 

    screenshot-2024-10-11-032947.png
    NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center has issued its aurora forecast for Friday night.

    Space Weather Prediction Center


    The map of the aurora forecast shows that northern parts of the country have a better chance of seeing the auroras. 

    A view line that shows “the southern extent of where aurora might be seen on the northern horizon” stretches from Washington, D.C. across the Midwest and through Illinois, Pennsylvania and New York. 

    The northern lights were on display on Thursday night 

    The northern lights were visible all throughout the country on Thursday night.

    1000033386.jpg
    The northern lights in Plainfield, Illinois on Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024.

    Mario Carrasco


    Photos of the northern lights were captured in places like Pittsburgh, Detroit, Chicago, Boston, New York, Baltimore, and Philadelphia. 

    The colorful auroras had green, purple, red and pink hues scattered throughout the skies. 

    What causes the northern lights? 

    When a geomagnetic storm occurs, solar wind is sent toward Earth. 

    Charged protons and electrons follow Earth’s magnetic field and enter the atmosphere where the magnetic fields are the weakest: the poles. 

    The electrons smash into all the different molecules that make up our atmosphere, creating a dazzling display of colors in the sky.

    Mike Darnay

    Mike Darnay is a digital producer and photojournalist at CBS Pittsburgh. Mike has also written and produced content for Vox Media and the Mon Valley Independent.
    He often covers overnight breaking news, the Pittsburgh Steelers and high school sports.

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  • Will Northern California see more auroras? NOAA says Northern Lights possible again Thursday

    Will Northern California see more auroras? NOAA says Northern Lights possible again Thursday

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    Sky watchers in parts of Northern California may catch another glimpse of the Northern Lights on Thursday night. NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center issued a severe geomagnetic storm watch through Thursday. The center said a fast coronal mass ejection (CME) erupted from the Sun on Tuesday and there is the potential for a G4 geomagnetic storm upon arrival. That means an aurora borealis may become visible across much of the northern half of the United States, as far south as Alabama to parts of Northern California, according to the center. Geomagnetic storms are measured from G1 (minor) to G5 (extreme). The scale is based on powers of 10, meaning a G2 storm is 10 times stronger than a G1 storm and so on.The storm in May that produced auroras across much of California and as far south as Florida was a G5 storm. On Monday, some people in Northern California reported seeing another aurora. NOAA’s aurora forecast dashboard showed a possible view line extending into southern Oregon for Thursday night. Bryan Brasher with NOAA said auroras typically happen up to 250 miles above the surface of the Earth and view lines could extend up to 600 or 800 miles away.“Aurora can weaken and intensify very quickly and there are times where they could be seen south of the view line, but that line is a best guess on the limit to which people could expect to have a chance to see them,” he said ahead of the event.Meteorologist Tamara Berg said auroras are best viewed away from city lights and could be visible Thursday in between passing clouds. Peak viewing is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. Aurora sightings are also reported on the NASA-funded science project Aurorasaurus. You can sign up to get alerts from the Aurorasaurus.See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter

    Sky watchers in parts of Northern California may catch another glimpse of the Northern Lights on Thursday night.

    NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center issued a severe geomagnetic storm watch through Thursday.

    The center said a fast coronal mass ejection (CME) erupted from the Sun on Tuesday and there is the potential for a G4 geomagnetic storm upon arrival.

    This content is imported from Twitter.
    You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

    That means an aurora borealis may become visible across much of the northern half of the United States, as far south as Alabama to parts of Northern California, according to the center.

    This content is imported from Twitter.
    You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

    Geomagnetic storms are measured from G1 (minor) to G5 (extreme). The scale is based on powers of 10, meaning a G2 storm is 10 times stronger than a G1 storm and so on.

    The storm in May that produced auroras across much of California and as far south as Florida was a G5 storm. On Monday, some people in Northern California reported seeing another aurora.

    NOAA’s aurora forecast dashboard showed a possible view line extending into southern Oregon for Thursday night.

    Bryan Brasher with NOAA said auroras typically happen up to 250 miles above the surface of the Earth and view lines could extend up to 600 or 800 miles away.

    “Aurora can weaken and intensify very quickly and there are times where they could be seen south of the view line, but that line is a best guess on the limit to which people could expect to have a chance to see them,” he said ahead of the event.

    Meteorologist Tamara Berg said auroras are best viewed away from city lights and could be visible Thursday in between passing clouds. Peak viewing is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.

    Aurora sightings are also reported on the NASA-funded science project Aurorasaurus. You can sign up to get alerts from the Aurorasaurus.

    See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter

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  • Northern lights expected in Minnesota Thursday night as severe geomagnetic storm hits Earth

    Northern lights expected in Minnesota Thursday night as severe geomagnetic storm hits Earth

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    MINNEAPOLIS — Get your cameras ready, Minnesota, because a big northern lights show is expected after sundown on Thursday due to the arrival of a severe geomagnetic storm.

    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center says a coronal mass ejection (CME) left the sun on Wednesday at about 9 p.m. CST, traveling at about 1.5 million miles an hour. It arrived at Earth on Thursday just after 10 a.m. CST.

    “This is a very speedy CME. It’s the fastest CME that we’ve really measured that had a total-Earth component in the solar cycle so far,” said space weather forecaster Shawn Dahl.

    The storm’s current strength is rated at G4, which means it’s severe, but it has the potential of reaching G5, or extreme strength. The storm could last through Saturday.

    Dahl’s team says the storm “could impact ongoing recovery efforts for Hurricanes Helene and Milton” due to possible disruptions to communication satellites, high-frequency radio signals, GPS systems and power grids that have already been strained by the massive storms.  

    The solar flare that hit Earth on Thursday morning is shown here leaving the sun on Wednesday night

    NOAA


    NOAA has a spacecraft located 1 million miles from Earth which alerts the prediction center when solar flares are between 15-30 minutes from reaching our planet. Nevertheless, space storm forecasting is a pretty unpredictable science.  

    You can watch the storm’s activity in real time on the prediction center’s website.

    On the upside, auroras are expected to be visible on Thursday night in Minnesota and Wisconsin — if clouds cooperate — and as far south as Alabama.

    Why does there seem to be more northern lights this year?

    Bryan Brasher, the prediction center’s project manager, says we’re at the peak of Solar Cycle 25, with each cycle lasting about 11 years. He says this cycle has been much more active than predicted.

    All that activity has given Minnesotans plenty of opportunities to marvel at dancing light shows in the sky, with the most recent batch of auroras visible in the Twin Cities and other parts of the state this past weekend.

    This current storm could even rival the one in May, which produced incredible auroras over Minnesota, but it’s unclear if it will be as strong or will last as long.

    The prediction center says CMEs are “tremendous explosions of solar and embedded magnetic fields.” When a CME hits and envelopes our planet’s magnetic field, the collision of its electrically-charged particles with our atmosphere can produce dazzling waves of color in the sky.

    Check out these tips from the pros on photographing the northern lights.

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  • The Northern Lights may be visible from the DC area Wednesday night. Here’s how to get a glimpse – WTOP News

    The Northern Lights may be visible from the DC area Wednesday night. Here’s how to get a glimpse – WTOP News

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    The Northern Lights may be visible in the D.C. area Wednesday night. WTOP’s Greg Redfern explains how to catch a glimpse.

    A very rare “red Northern Lights” over Virginia in 2003. (Greg Redfern)(WTOP/Greg Redfern)

    Here we go again, and so soon!

    Aurora finally lit up Virginia skies the nights of Oct. 7 and 8, which was a bit later than had been predicted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Space Weather Prediction Center as related in my story. That event did achieve the G3 (Strong) level to produce aurora.

    SWPC issued an alert Wednesday morning for a G4 (Severe) or greater event for Oct. 10 and 11. As stated in the alert:

    “Potential Impacts: Area of impact primarily poleward of 45 degrees Geomagnetic Latitude.

    Induced Currents — Possible widespread voltage control problems and some protective systems may mistakenly trip out key assets from the power grid. Induced pipeline currents intensify.

    Spacecraft — Systems may experience surface charging; increased drag on low earth orbit satellites, and tracking and orientation problems may occur.

    Navigation — Satellite navigation (GPS) degraded or inoperable for hours.

    Radio — HF (high frequency) radio propagation sporadic or blacked out.

    Aurora — Aurora may be seen as low as Alabama and northern California.”

    This Geomagnetic Storm Watch is in effect due to a large coronal mass ejection that occurred Sunday. The coronal mass ejection was caused by a powerful solar flare that lasted for four hours!

    This geomagnetic storm and associated aurora event forecast is not predicted to reach the historic levels of May 10 of this year. But, we should be watching the skies because if the forecast holds for G4 (Severe), and especially if G5 (Extreme) levels are reached, it could be quite the sight.

    For the D.C. region on Wednesday night, the forecast shows we may detect aurora to the North thanks to our forecasted clear skies

    If the Space Weather Prediction Center forecast holds, aurora conditions may be strong enough the night of Oct. 10-11 to allow us to detect aurora visually and with our cameras.

    It will be well worth taking a look to the north from a dark sky site with a clear horizon at times when G4 levels — see forecast below — are reached. The higher the number, the better chances for aurora. This forecast can change.

    The Space Weather Prediction Center’s three-day NOAA geomagnetic activity observation and forecast is below:

    Oct. 10

    8 p.m. to 11 p.m. — 8.83 (G4 Severe)

    Oct. 11

    11 p.m. (Oct. 10) to 2 a.m. — 8.00 (G4 Severe)

    2 a.m. to dawn — 7.00 (G3)

    Analysis of the CME associated with the X1.8 flare suggests further enhancement 10 Oct into 11 Oct, reaching G4 (Severe) levels is likely with G5 (Extreme) levels possible.

    You might be able to visually detect some color in the sky if aurora are present, but they will likely be low on the northern horizon. Wide field binoculars can enhance your view if aurora are present.

    Use a camera or smartphone that can take exposures of several seconds — including using “Night Sky” or “Low Light” settings if your camera has them — of the northern horizon. Steady the camera or use a tripod for best image results. The camera may capture aurora your eyes did not.

    Our best bet is to monitor WTOP’s weather page for sky conditions, the NOAA, space-related social media sites, EarthSky.org and space.com for updates.

    Spaceweather.com — I check this site every day just as I do my local weather — has a daily snapshot of what the space weather in the solar system is going to be like and a current image of the sun.

    With our terrestrial weather being such a factor in our daily lives here in the D.C. area, and frankly, the rest of the world, we are also directly affected by space weather, which can produce a variety of events, including Wednesday’s geomagnetic storm and aurora.

    Space Weather, like our terrestrial weather, is caused by Earth’s interaction with our star, the sun. We know it will be there every new day and count on it for life-giving warmth and energy. We also have become accustomed to it being well behaved. What many people may not know is that our sun undergoes an 11-year solar cycle that can affect space weather throughout our solar system.

    Our sun is a 4.5-billion-year-old star that we have been monitoring since Galileo.

    The sun had an episode of disturbed behavior in 1859 that, if it were to occur today, could adversely affect us if we were not prepared.

    In 1859 on Sept. 1, the sun experienced a solar storm episode that was observed by solar astronomer Richard Carrington that ended up bearing his name — “the Carrington Event.” This was a watershed event in solar astronomy and also the sun’s effect on the Earth, as nothing like it has been seen since.

    If a Carrington-level solar event were to happen today, the affect on modern society’s infrastructure could be potentially catastrophic, especially the electrical grid, which powers everything else. If you think this is unlikely, or too sci-fi to be true, I suggest you read the report by the National Academies of Science published in 2008.

    Last year, the sun had a very powerful space weather event on March 12, which, fortunately for us, occurred on the far side of the sun.

    You listen to WTOP for “traffic and weather together on the eights.” Maybe now you will want to include a check on space weather too as part of your daily weather routine.

    I will be at Peaks of Otter on Wednesday night and I must say, I am excited! I think it may be an all-nighter!

    Good luck, aurora chasers …

    Follow Greg Redfern on Facebook, X and his daily blog to keep up with the latest news in astronomy and space exploration.

    Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.

    © 2024 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

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  • Saturday could be the best chance to see the northern lights in the Philadelphia area

    Saturday could be the best chance to see the northern lights in the Philadelphia area

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    The most powerful eruption on the sun in years is extending the range in which the northern lights will be visible to possibly as far south as Pennsylvania – maybe even into the Philadelphia region – and the best chance to see the colorful auroras is predicted to be Saturday night. 

    The explosion, known as a coronal mass ejection, occurred Thursday. Scientists say it is strongest CME recorded since 2017, and it flung clouds of magnetized plasma into the solar system, creating a geomagnetic storm headed towards Earth.

    MORE: Earth will gain a ‘mini moon’ for two months in the form of a tiny asteroid

    The charged particles emitted from the sun interact with the Earth’s magnetic field, creating the array for colors in the night sky known as the northern lights or aurora borealis. In normal conditions the northern lights are only visible within the range of about 1,500 miles from the North Pole. Because of the power of this CME the aurora will be more intense, pushing the viewable range of the lights much further south.

    But predicting when and where the northern lights will appear is difficult, even for experts. 

    “The challenge is actually understanding how severe the eruption is on the sun,” Derrick Pitts, chief astronomer at the Franklin Institute, said, “and how far down it will reach from the poles of the planet, down towards the mid-latitudes.”

    Thursday’s eruption was the second CME this week. Both were accompanied by solar flares that emitted intense bursts of electromagnetic radiation traveling at the speed of light that reached the Earth about 8 minutes after each occured.

    The magnetized plasma from the CME travels slower and can take 15 hours to several days to reach the Earth’s magnetic field, which results in the delay between Thursday’s eruption and the peak of the expected celestial event. It also makes it difficult to predict precisely when the northern lights will become more intense.

    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center maintains an aurora dashboard on its website. It has maps that show nightly predictions of the range of the aurora, other maps that forecast where the aurora will be visible in the next few minutes and more information. 

    There had been a chance the northern lights would be visible in the region on Friday night but cloudy skies interfered.

    On Saturday night, the geomagnetic energy will be stronger and the National Weather Service predicts the sky over Philadelphia will be mostly clear.

    The best opportunity to see the northern lights will be as far away from light pollution as possible. Pitts suggested going at least 60 miles north of Philadelphia to get away from the city’s lights – the closer to the Pennsylvania-New York border, the better. 

    Shawn Dahl, coordinator of NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, said it’s a good idea to stake out the night sky around midnight.

    “Usually we’re talking about a four-hour window – two hours before midnight, two hours after midnight – but that window of time can broaden the stronger the activity,” Dahl said. “The less strong the activity, that window can shorten up, but still a good time to start looking is a couple hours after dark, especially if conditions are favorable.” 

    Look low on the horizon for the aurora, Dahl said. If you can’t see anything, try taking a picture with a smartphone and other digital camera, both sometimes can pick up the lights better than the naked eye.

    Autumn and spring are the best seasons for the aurora borealis because of the greater tendency for geomagnetic storms. This year, it also is a particularly active time because of the sun’s solar cycle: Every 11 years the sun’s magnetic poles flip and ahead of this happening there are more frequent CMEs, solar flares and sunspots.

    The solar cycle will peak between the end of this year and early 2026. This period is called a solar maximum, Dahl said, which means the sun gets a little more “stressed out” and releases more energy. 

    So there could be more opportunities to see the northern lights during the next 18 months, but it’s impossible to say for sure. Pitts noted that not only do do the eruptions have to occur, they also have to be directed towards Earth so the geomagnetic storm collides with the Earth’s magnetic field.

    Managing Editor Jon Tuleya contributed to this article.

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    Michaela Althouse

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