Northern Lights Illuminate the Skies Over Atlanta
Aurora Seen in Atlanta Area Around 10:30 PM
Emily Smith, CNN
A stunning aurora caused by a severe geomagnetic storm is painting the sky over Atlanta and the surrounding areas. The Northern Lights are visible in the city for the first time in decades, and experts say the display could continue for several hours.
The aurora is caused by the interaction of charged particles from the sun with the Earth's magnetic field. The particles are drawn to the magnetic poles, where they collide with atoms and molecules in the atmosphere, causing them to emit light.
The geomagnetic storm that is causing the aurora is one of the strongest in years. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a geomagnetic storm watch, and the agency says the storm could produce northern lights as far south as Alabama and Northern California.
If you're hoping to see the aurora, the best time to look is between 10:00 PM and 1:00 AM. The lights are most visible in areas with dark skies and low light pollution.
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