**TOP 5 THINGS YOU NEED to KNOW ABOUT the SOLAR STORM LIGHT SHOW**

TOP 5 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE SOLAR STORM LIGHT SHOW

A massive geomagnetic storm is set to make the Northern Lights visible as far south as Alabama and California tonight. Here’s the breakdown:

• 🌎 Unusually Wide Visibility: This G4-level storm (rare for this solar cycle) means you don’t need to be in the Arctic Circle. Skywatchers in the U.S. as far south as Northern California, Oklahoma, and Alabama could see a vibrant red or green glow on the northern horizon.
• ⏰ Best Viewing Window: Prime time is between 10 PM and 2 AM local time. But the “shockwave” of the solar flare arrived earlier than expected, so be ready to look up immediately after sunset for the most dramatic displays.
• 📱 Check Your Phone First: Cameras are actually better at seeing the aurora than your naked eye. Point your phone camera (in night mode) at the northern sky for 3 seconds. If you see a green smear on your screen, you’ve got a live show—just wait a minute for your eyes to adjust.
• 🛑 Expect GPS & Radio Glitches: The same storm that brings light brings chaos. Airline flights over the poles may be rerouted, and your car’s GPS or satellite radio could flicker or sputter out for short periods. Don’t panic—this is standard for a major storm.
• 🏙️ Escape Light Pollution: City lights will kill the magic. Drive 20 minutes outside of town to a dark park or open field. Bonus: the aurora might be visible even through thin clouds, so don’t cancel your watch party if it’s partly overcast.