Spectacular displays of the Northern Lights, typically reserved for high-latitude regions, ignited social media with stunning images recently. From parts of Spain to the US, Ireland, and the UK, skywatchers were treated to this phenomenon, right in their own backyards. While this bucket list experience was welcomed why did the Northern Lights shine so far south?

Was it Magic or a Solar Surprise?

A warning was issued on Friday, May 10 by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). They advised that a solar storm would reach the Earth over the weekend. The announcement highlighted the solar storm may affect satellites, power, and communication systems.

Another effect of the solar storm was the terrific light show known as the Aurora Borealis. Many people captured this phenomenon on camera phones with the pictures taking over all the social media platforms.

A Rare Severe Geomagnetic Storm Warning

NOAA warned operators of power plants and spacecraft in orbit as well as the Federal Emergency Management Agency to take precautions. The storm posed a threat to high-voltage transmission lines for power grids not to household electric lines. It also affected communication and navigation services like GPS etc.

The Sun’s Strong Solar Flares

The sun has been producing strong solar flares since Wednesday, May 8 resulting in at least seven outbursts of plasma. Each outburst contains billions of tons of plasma and magnetic fields from the sun’s outer atmosphere.

According to NASA, the flares are related to a sunspot that is 16 times the diameter of Earth. The solar activity is all part of the solar activity increasing as the sun approaches the peak of its 11-year cycle. NASA also said the astronauts were not in danger but they are monitoring the increase of radiation.

Fortunately, this geomagnetic storm appears to have minimal impact on everyday life. So let’s just sit back and enjoy the show. It may continue for another couple of days in certain regions albeit not as strong.

Let us know in the comments if you spotted the Northern Lights and from where…

Main Image: Shutterstock/muratart