Residents across the region were treated to a dazzling display of the northern lights, as a powerful geomagnetic storm pushed the aurora borealis far south of its usual range.
Triggered by multiple coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from the sun, the storm reached G3–G4 intensity levels, allowing the auroras to be visible in at least 21 states, including South Dakota. The phenomenon lit up skies from November 11 into the early hours of November 12, with peak visibility expected between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. Central Time.
In areas like Spearfish, Rapid City, and the Black Hills, clear skies and low light pollution created ideal conditions for viewing.
According to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, the auroras were the result of solar plasma interacting with Earth’s magnetic field, creating a spectacle typically reserved for far northern latitudes.
Authorities noted no major disruptions to communications or navigation systems, and the geomagnetic activity is expected to taper off in the coming days.
Skywatchers are encouraged to stay alert for future aurora forecasts, as solar activity remains elevated.
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