A massive geomagnetic storm has triggered brilliant celestial lights in the form of southern lights or Aurora Australis and northern lights or Aurora Borealis around the globe. While the lights have already dazzled people around Tasmania and Victoria this weekend, most of NSW missed out due to heavy rain and dark clouds. However, the Bureau of Meteorology says the sparkling auroras could continue until 6pm on Tuesday, May 14 after issuing additional warnings of geomagnetic storms. Sightings could even be possible in cities like Sydney, Perth, and southern Queensland. Here’s everything you need to know about the rare event and how you can see it in Sydney and NSW.
What is causing the dramatic auroras?
A severe geomagnetic storm caused by flares or charged particles from the sun hit Earth’s magnetic field last night setting off the dazzling event. The storm is said to have been the most powerful in nearly two decades with lights shining around the world including in Britain, Florida and Switzerland and as far as New Zealand in the southern hemisphere. The last time the storm was observed was in 2003.
Can you see it in Sydney?
The experts at the Bureau of Meteorology say the jaw-dropping display could be visible in cities like Sydney and inland NSW but from low-latitude locations or dark-sky spots if the sky is clear. While the wet weather will persist today, the BoM says that some regions along the NSW coast and even Sydney could see it over the next two days although, do note, that rain and thunderstorms could continue to cause disruptions.
“There is some potential depending on exactly how the system moves. The northern coastal area could be some breaks in the cloud and it might be OK for viewing, inland parts should be OK. Sydney is right on the edge of where we might see,” Christie Johnson, a senior meteorologist at BOM told The Guardian.
What time will the Aurora Australis be visible in Australian skies?
The lights were visible over the night sky on May 11, and could be seen again tonight and tomorrow generally around 10pm to 2pm. The BoM has warned of power outages and blackouts so it is advised to carry backup if you’re venturing out.
What are the best places to see the lights?
Although the lights are commonly seen in Tasmania, parts of Victoria, some southernmost parts of Western Australia and southern NSW have been known to enjoy the display occasionally. To spot the lights, it is advised to head to a place with minimal light pollution. Check out the best dark sky sites around Australia here and the best places for stargazing in and around Sydney here.
When is the best time to see the southern lights?
Much like its more popular sibling, the Aurora Borealis, southern lights are unpredictable. Generally speaking, the best time to see them is during the winter months of May and August and during the spring equinox in September. The lights glow over Tasmania all year.
Follow the Bureau of Meteorology here for regular updates.
Glimpses of Aurora Australis in Sydney
Posts about the stunning display have naturally taken over social media. Here is a brilliant capture as seen over Manly in the Northern Beaches. If the clouds clear up, fingers crossed Sydneysiders and NSW residents can catch a glimpse tonight.