Sky Watchers Alert: Thompson Poised for Spectacular Northern Lights Displays - AI Generated Image
Keep your eyes on the sky this weekend, Thompson. A series of solar storms is predicted to turn the “Hub of the North” into a prime viewing gallery for the Aurora Borealis starting tonight.
According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, a G2 (Moderate) geomagnetic storm watch is in effect for January 2 and 3, following a coronal mass ejection (CME) that erupted from the sun on New Year’s Eve.
When to Watch The forecast indicates that activity will ramp up significantly starting late tonight.
- Friday, Jan 2: Minor (G1) storm levels are expected initially, intensifying to Moderate (G2) levels overnight as the solar particles impact Earth’s atmosphere.
- Saturday, Jan 3: The geomagnetic disturbance is expected to peak, with the Kp index reaching 6, which often results in vibrant displays visible directly overhead in Thompson.
Looking Ahead If you miss this weekend’s show, there are more opportunities on the horizon. Long-range data from the tracking app AuroraReach suggests another window of “High Odds” for visibility around January 17 and 18, offering multiple chances to see the lights this month.
Why Now? We are currently entering the peak of “Solar Cycle 25,” an 11-year cycle of solar activity. Scientists predict that 2026 will be one of the best years in a decade for aurora viewing, with more frequent and intense storms expected throughout the winter.
Residents are reminded that the best viewing is found away from city streetlights. With clear, cold nights in the forecast, conditions are ideal—just be sure to bundle up against the extreme cold warnings currently in effect.
A member of the Canadian Association of Journalists, Emma returned to core news journalism in early 2025 following a distinguished 15-year career as a content publisher and digital strategist. This background allows her to combine traditional journalistic integrity with a modern, data-driven approach to storytelling.
Emma holds a First-Class Honours degree in Business Studies from the University of Ulster and a postgraduate diploma in Accounting, providing her with a unique analytical lens when covering municipal politics, community development, and the social issues shaping Thompson, MB.
Contact her at emma@thethompsonnews.ca.
