The Aurora Borealis Was Seen In 20 States Last Week

Usually you have to travel to far north places like Alaska, Greenland, and Iceland to experience the razzle-dazzle spectacle of the Aurora Borealis, otherwise known as the Northern Lights. However, last week an unusually strong electromagnetic storm produced these amazing lights in the skies over 20 southern states. Brilliant swirls of greens, reds, and oranges were seen as far south as northern Alabama. This is a once in a lifetime viewing opportunity for many people who never venture to the far north. It is even rare to find see these lights in the northern states but to see them in Alabama is almost unheard of.

 

The Aurora Borealis is created by a stream of charged particles carried in a stream of solar wind from the sun. As this nears the magnetic field of the Earth, these charged particles are drawn in and interact with the thermosphere in our atmosphere to produce the dazzling dancing lights we see in the sky. Some cultures put special significance in the Northern Lights. For example, the Japanese believe that if conception takes place under the Northern Lights, good luck will follow that child.

The Aurora Borealis is one of the best shows put on by Mother Nature. It is so spectacular in fact, many people plan their entire vacation around seeing the Northern Lights. There's a popular natural hot springs area north of Fairbanks Alaska where you can soak and relax in the outdoor hot pools and view the Northern Lights. It's always been a dream of mine to go there one day but being to walk out my front door last Monday night and view the Aurora Borealis right in my neighborhood was truly a special event I'll never forget!