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      <title>Aurora Borealis Info from Soft Serve News</title>
      <link>https://cdn.softservenews.com/</link>
      <description>Real time Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) and Aurora Australis (Southern Lights) News and Forecasts. Get info on upcoming Aurora (Northern Lights) storm watches and alerts. Find out how to see the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) in your area.</description>
	  <category>Aurora Borealis</category>
      <language>en-us</language>
<lastBuildDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 02:40:01 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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<guid isPermaLink="false">449986e6af8fb0a716a00f7732041881</guid>
<title>NEW Minor Aurora Storm Watch Issued</title>
<link>https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/aurora-storm-watch-300376.html</link>
<pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 02:36:02 +0000</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[<center>
<h1>Minor Aurora Storm Watch Issued </h1><br/><br/>
 <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salamapaja/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/Thomas_Kast7866.jpg"  alt="Aurora Borealis" title="Aurora Borealis Storm"></a><br/> <span style='font-size:90%'><i>Photo by  <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salamapaja/" target="_blank">Thomas Kast of Salamapaja</a></i></span>
</center>
<br/>
<h2>Charged Particles from Sun heading towards Earth.</h2>	   
<p><h2>        <b> 48 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b></h2></p>    
<h2>When does the Aurora storm watch begin?</h2>
<p><b> The storm watch begins at 04/10/2026 12:00 AM UTC.    See <a href='https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/aurora-storm-watch-300376.html#arivaltime'>here for storm forecast in your local time</a>.</p></b><br/>
<h3>Details and Northern Lights Viewing Tips</h3><br/>  
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a 48 hour magnetic storm watch indicating a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) or a high speed solar wind stream emanating from the Sun may be heading towards Earth.  These fast moving charged particles can cause a Northern Lights display.  
<br/><br/>
The storm watch begins at 04/10/2026 12:00 AM UTC.    See <a href='https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/aurora-storm-watch-300376.html#arivaltime'>here for storm forecast in your local time</a>.  It is important to note that these are only NOAA's estimates.   Real-time Aurora Borealis forecasts can be obtained at the <a href="https://cdn.softservenews.com/Aurora.htm">Aurora Borealis Forecast</a> page at Soft Serve News.  
<br/><br/>
NOAA estimates the solar wind stream currently headed towards Earth might produce a Kp (geomagnetic activity level) as indicated below, but again that's never fully known until the particles actually hit Earth:  
<br/><br/>        <b> 48 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b><br/><br/>Stronger CMEs can sometimes cause trouble for satellites and create problems with electrical grids by inducing currents as the CME cloud interacts with the magnetic field that surrounds the earth.  It is this disturbance of the Earth's magnetic field which is <a href="https://cdn.softservenews.com/what-causes-the-aurora-borealis.html" target="_blank">the cause of the Northern Lights</a>.  NOAA indicates that weak power grid fluctuations may occur and some minor impacts on satellite operations are possible.<br/><br/>
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, can range from a faint green glow on the northern horizon to a multicolored, full-sky display which can be one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring scenes in nature.    <br/><br/>
<center>
<img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/soft-serve-news-aurora-2.jpg" alt="northern lights soft serve news" Width = "700">
</center>
<br/><br/><br/><br/>
<b>WILL YOU BE ABLE TO SEE THE AURORA?</b><br/><br/>
To determine if you can see the Northern Lights use the following four steps:<br/><br/>
<b>Step 1 -- Know your Location's "Kp number."</b><br/><br/>
The Kp number is the Geomagnetic Activity Level.  The stronger the Aurora, the larger the Kp number and the further south it can be seen.  Find the Kp number for your location on one of the maps below.  On the night you wish to view, periodically check the <a href="https://cdn.softservenews.com/Aurora.htm">real-time Aurora Borealis Forecast</a>.  This will give you the Kp number prediction for the Aurora for the next hour or so.  If that number is greater or equal to the number on the map for your location, you're in luck.  Even if the predicted number is one point too low, it still might be worth a look.<br/><br/>
<center><b> North America</b></center><br/>
<center><img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/globeNW_big2.gif" alt="Kp map North America" Width = "700"> </center><br/><br/>
<center><b>Europe & Asia</b><br/><br/></center>
<center><img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/globeNE_big2.gif" alt="Europe and Asia" Width = "700"> </center><br/><br/></center>
<b>Step 2 -- Check the Ovation map.</b><br/><br/>
It is a good idea to get confirmation of activity with NOAA's Ovation map.  The Kp number gives nice info on how large the storm is, but the Ovation map does a better job of telling you if you can actually see it. It gives a 30 to 40 minute forecast of the size of the aurora along with a color-coded probability of seeing the aurora over various spots on the Earth. <br/><br/>
<center><br/><br/><img border="0" src="https://services.swpc.noaa.gov/images/aurora-forecast-northern-hemisphere.jpg" alt="Ovation forecast model - Northern hemisphere" Width = "500"><br/><br/><br/></center>
Look for light yellow, orange or, better yet, RED on the Ovation map instead of the usual dark green.<br/><br/>
One other thing about this map. From the reports I get, it sometimes underestimates the size of the Aurora, especially with larger Kp numbers. 
So if the Kp number looks good for your location, and the map is showing orange or red, that's good news for Aurora viewing. <br/><br/>
<b>Step 3 -- Check the Weather.</b><br/><br/>
Auroras happen in the upper atmosphere, so if there are clouds blocking your view of the stars, you won't be able to see the Aurora.  <br/><br/>
<b>Step 4 -- Shop for a Dark Spot.</b><br/><br/>
Get away from those city lights.  Darkness is best for viewing the Aurora.  The fewer competing light sources, the better.  But it is also very important to remember the widest part of the Aurora is when the sun is on the opposite side of the earth. So late, nighttime (or early morning) dark tends to be best.<br/><br/><br/>
<b>EXPECTATIONS</b><br/><br/>
Experienced Northern Lights hunters are familiar with disappointment.  Predictions of when the CME cloud or a high speed solar wind stream hits the earth are not always accurate.  Sometimes CME events produce much smaller displays than expected, or even none at all.  Also, it is possible the main auroral event happens during the day and therefore can only be enjoyed by people on the other side of the world where it's dark.<br/><br/>
Even with these uncertainties, seeing the grandeur of a powerful Aurora Borealis display may be a once in a lifetime event, so for some it's worth the gamble to try. <br/><br/>]]></description>
<author>help@softservenews.com (Jim Thomas)</author>
<category>Aurora Borealis</category>
</item>
<item>
<guid isPermaLink="false">7c58870d6384fe885c15a60d6ed1930a</guid>
<title>Aurora Storm Watch Update</title>
<link>https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/aurora-storm-watch-300375.html?catw=7735</link>
<pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:06:01 +0000</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[<center>
<h1>Minor Aurora Storm Watch Issued </h1><br/><br/>
 <a href="http://www.torivarnaess.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/Tor_Ivar_Aurora_1255.jpg"  alt="Aurora Borealis" title="Aurora Borealis Storm"></a><br/> <span style='font-size:90%'><i>Photo by  <a href="http://www.torivarnaess.com/" target="_blank">Tor-Ivar Næss Photography</a></i></span>
</center>
<br/>
 <p><h2>UPDATE 1: NOAA has now increased the strength and length of the storm watch. 6 Kp possible. The article below has been updated.</h2></p><br>  <p><h2>UPDATE 2: NOAA has now increased the length of the storm watch to 96 hours.  The article below has been updated.</h2></p><br>  <p><h2>UPDATE 3: NOAA has updated this storm watch.  The info below has been updated to reflect the new info.</h2></p><br>  <p><h2>UPDATE 4: NOAA has updated this storm watch.  The info below has been updated to reflect the new info.</h2></p><br>  <p><h2>UPDATE 5: NOAA has now increased the length of the storm watch to 144 hours.  The article below has been updated.</h2></p><br> <h2>Charged Particles from Sun heading towards Earth.</h2>	   
<p><h2>        <b>First 24 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b> <br>         <b>Final 120 hours: 6 Kp possible.</b></h2></p>    
<h2>When does the Aurora storm watch begin?</h2>
<p><b> The storm watch begins at 03/30/2026 12:00 AM UTC.    See <a href='https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/aurora-storm-watch-300375.html#arivaltime'>here for storm forecast in your local time</a>.</p></b><br/>
<h3>Details and Northern Lights Viewing Tips</h3><br/>  
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a 144 hour magnetic storm watch indicating a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) or a high speed solar wind stream emanating from the Sun may be heading towards Earth.  These fast moving charged particles can cause a Northern Lights display.  
<br/><br/>
The storm watch begins at 03/30/2026 12:00 AM UTC.    See <a href='https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/aurora-storm-watch-300375.html#arivaltime'>here for storm forecast in your local time</a>.  It is important to note that these are only NOAA's estimates.   Real-time Aurora Borealis forecasts can be obtained at the <a href="https://cdn.softservenews.com/Aurora.htm">Aurora Borealis Forecast</a> page at Soft Serve News.  
<br/><br/>
NOAA estimates the solar wind stream currently headed towards Earth might produce a Kp (geomagnetic activity level) as indicated below, but again that's never fully known until the particles actually hit Earth:  
<br/><br/>        <b>First 24 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b> <br>         <b>Final 120 hours: 6 Kp possible.</b><br/><br/>Stronger CMEs can sometimes cause trouble for satellites and create problems with electrical grids by inducing currents as the CME cloud interacts with the magnetic field that surrounds the earth.  It is this disturbance of the Earth's magnetic field which is <a href="https://cdn.softservenews.com/what-causes-the-aurora-borealis.html" target="_blank">the cause of the Northern Lights</a>.  NOAA indicates that high-latitude power systems may experience voltage alarms.  Also, satellites may require corrective actions due to increased drag from the atmosphere.<br/><br/>
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, can range from a faint green glow on the northern horizon to a multicolored, full-sky display which can be one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring scenes in nature.    <br/><br/>
<center>
<img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/soft-serve-news-aurora-2.jpg" alt="northern lights soft serve news" Width = "700">
</center>
<br/><br/><br/><br/>
<b>WILL YOU BE ABLE TO SEE THE AURORA?</b><br/><br/>
To determine if you can see the Northern Lights use the following four steps:<br/><br/>
<b>Step 1 -- Know your Location's "Kp number."</b><br/><br/>
The Kp number is the Geomagnetic Activity Level.  The stronger the Aurora, the larger the Kp number and the further south it can be seen.  Find the Kp number for your location on one of the maps below.  On the night you wish to view, periodically check the <a href="https://cdn.softservenews.com/Aurora.htm">real-time Aurora Borealis Forecast</a>.  This will give you the Kp number prediction for the Aurora for the next hour or so.  If that number is greater or equal to the number on the map for your location, you're in luck.  Even if the predicted number is one point too low, it still might be worth a look.<br/><br/>
<center><b> North America</b></center><br/>
<center><img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/globeNW_big2.gif" alt="Kp map North America" Width = "700"> </center><br/><br/>
<center><b>Europe & Asia</b><br/><br/></center>
<center><img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/globeNE_big2.gif" alt="Europe and Asia" Width = "700"> </center><br/><br/></center>
<b>Step 2 -- Check the Ovation map.</b><br/><br/>
It is a good idea to get confirmation of activity with NOAA's Ovation map.  The Kp number gives nice info on how large the storm is, but the Ovation map does a better job of telling you if you can actually see it. It gives a 30 to 40 minute forecast of the size of the aurora along with a color-coded probability of seeing the aurora over various spots on the Earth. <br/><br/>
<center><br/><br/><img border="0" src="https://services.swpc.noaa.gov/images/aurora-forecast-northern-hemisphere.jpg" alt="Ovation forecast model - Northern hemisphere" Width = "500"><br/><br/><br/></center>
Look for light yellow, orange or, better yet, RED on the Ovation map instead of the usual dark green.<br/><br/>
One other thing about this map. From the reports I get, it sometimes underestimates the size of the Aurora, especially with larger Kp numbers. 
So if the Kp number looks good for your location, and the map is showing orange or red, that's good news for Aurora viewing. <br/><br/>
<b>Step 3 -- Check the Weather.</b><br/><br/>
Auroras happen in the upper atmosphere, so if there are clouds blocking your view of the stars, you won't be able to see the Aurora.  <br/><br/>
<b>Step 4 -- Shop for a Dark Spot.</b><br/><br/>
Get away from those city lights.  Darkness is best for viewing the Aurora.  The fewer competing light sources, the better.  But it is also very important to remember the widest part of the Aurora is when the sun is on the opposite side of the earth. So late, nighttime (or early morning) dark tends to be best.<br/><br/><br/>
<b>EXPECTATIONS</b><br/><br/>
Experienced Northern Lights hunters are familiar with disappointment.  Predictions of when the CME cloud or a high speed solar wind stream hits the earth are not always accurate.  Sometimes CME events produce much smaller displays than expected, or even none at all.  Also, it is possible the main auroral event happens during the day and therefore can only be enjoyed by people on the other side of the world where it's dark.<br/><br/>
Even with these uncertainties, seeing the grandeur of a powerful Aurora Borealis display may be a once in a lifetime event, so for some it's worth the gamble to try. <br/><br/>]]></description>
<author>help@softservenews.com (Jim Thomas)</author>
<category>Aurora Borealis</category>
</item>
<item>
<guid isPermaLink="false">877244395f5fc78e617a4fbb570ffa84</guid>
<title>Aurora Storm Watch Update</title>
<link>https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/aurora-storm-watch-300375.html?catw=2130</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 22:36:02 +0000</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[<center>
<h1>Minor Aurora Storm Watch Issued </h1><br/><br/>
 <a href="http://www.torivarnaess.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/Tor_Ivar_Aurora_1255.jpg"  alt="Aurora Borealis" title="Aurora Borealis Storm"></a><br/> <span style='font-size:90%'><i>Photo by  <a href="http://www.torivarnaess.com/" target="_blank">Tor-Ivar Næss Photography</a></i></span>
</center>
<br/>
 <p><h2>UPDATE 1: NOAA has now increased the strength and length of the storm watch. 6 Kp possible. The article below has been updated.</h2></p><br>  <p><h2>UPDATE 2: NOAA has now increased the length of the storm watch to 96 hours.  The article below has been updated.</h2></p><br>  <p><h2>UPDATE 3: NOAA has updated this storm watch.  The info below has been updated to reflect the new info.</h2></p><br>  <p><h2>UPDATE 4: NOAA has updated this storm watch.  The info below has been updated to reflect the new info.</h2></p><br> <h2>Charged Particles from Sun heading towards Earth.</h2>	   
<p><h2>        <b>First 24 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b> <br>         <b>Next 48 hours: 6 Kp possible.</b> <br>         <b>Final 24 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b></h2></p>    
<h2>When does the Aurora storm watch begin?</h2>
<p><b> The storm watch begins at 03/30/2026 12:00 AM UTC.    See <a href='https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/aurora-storm-watch-300375.html#arivaltime'>here for storm forecast in your local time</a>.</p></b><br/>
<h3>Details and Northern Lights Viewing Tips</h3><br/>  
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a 96 hour magnetic storm watch indicating a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) or a high speed solar wind stream emanating from the Sun may be heading towards Earth.  These fast moving charged particles can cause a Northern Lights display.  
<br/><br/>
The storm watch begins at 03/30/2026 12:00 AM UTC.    See <a href='https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/aurora-storm-watch-300375.html#arivaltime'>here for storm forecast in your local time</a>.  It is important to note that these are only NOAA's estimates.   Real-time Aurora Borealis forecasts can be obtained at the <a href="https://cdn.softservenews.com/Aurora.htm">Aurora Borealis Forecast</a> page at Soft Serve News.  
<br/><br/>
NOAA estimates the solar wind stream currently headed towards Earth might produce a Kp (geomagnetic activity level) as indicated below, but again that's never fully known until the particles actually hit Earth:  
<br/><br/>        <b>First 24 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b> <br>         <b>Next 48 hours: 6 Kp possible.</b> <br>         <b>Final 24 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b><br/><br/>Stronger CMEs can sometimes cause trouble for satellites and create problems with electrical grids by inducing currents as the CME cloud interacts with the magnetic field that surrounds the earth.  It is this disturbance of the Earth's magnetic field which is <a href="https://cdn.softservenews.com/what-causes-the-aurora-borealis.html" target="_blank">the cause of the Northern Lights</a>.  NOAA indicates that high-latitude power systems may experience voltage alarms.  Also, satellites may require corrective actions due to increased drag from the atmosphere.<br/><br/>
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, can range from a faint green glow on the northern horizon to a multicolored, full-sky display which can be one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring scenes in nature.    <br/><br/>
<center>
<img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/soft-serve-news-aurora-2.jpg" alt="northern lights soft serve news" Width = "700">
</center>
<br/><br/><br/><br/>
<b>WILL YOU BE ABLE TO SEE THE AURORA?</b><br/><br/>
To determine if you can see the Northern Lights use the following four steps:<br/><br/>
<b>Step 1 -- Know your Location's "Kp number."</b><br/><br/>
The Kp number is the Geomagnetic Activity Level.  The stronger the Aurora, the larger the Kp number and the further south it can be seen.  Find the Kp number for your location on one of the maps below.  On the night you wish to view, periodically check the <a href="https://cdn.softservenews.com/Aurora.htm">real-time Aurora Borealis Forecast</a>.  This will give you the Kp number prediction for the Aurora for the next hour or so.  If that number is greater or equal to the number on the map for your location, you're in luck.  Even if the predicted number is one point too low, it still might be worth a look.<br/><br/>
<center><b> North America</b></center><br/>
<center><img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/globeNW_big2.gif" alt="Kp map North America" Width = "700"> </center><br/><br/>
<center><b>Europe & Asia</b><br/><br/></center>
<center><img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/globeNE_big2.gif" alt="Europe and Asia" Width = "700"> </center><br/><br/></center>
<b>Step 2 -- Check the Ovation map.</b><br/><br/>
It is a good idea to get confirmation of activity with NOAA's Ovation map.  The Kp number gives nice info on how large the storm is, but the Ovation map does a better job of telling you if you can actually see it. It gives a 30 to 40 minute forecast of the size of the aurora along with a color-coded probability of seeing the aurora over various spots on the Earth. <br/><br/>
<center><br/><br/><img border="0" src="https://services.swpc.noaa.gov/images/aurora-forecast-northern-hemisphere.jpg" alt="Ovation forecast model - Northern hemisphere" Width = "500"><br/><br/><br/></center>
Look for light yellow, orange or, better yet, RED on the Ovation map instead of the usual dark green.<br/><br/>
One other thing about this map. From the reports I get, it sometimes underestimates the size of the Aurora, especially with larger Kp numbers. 
So if the Kp number looks good for your location, and the map is showing orange or red, that's good news for Aurora viewing. <br/><br/>
<b>Step 3 -- Check the Weather.</b><br/><br/>
Auroras happen in the upper atmosphere, so if there are clouds blocking your view of the stars, you won't be able to see the Aurora.  <br/><br/>
<b>Step 4 -- Shop for a Dark Spot.</b><br/><br/>
Get away from those city lights.  Darkness is best for viewing the Aurora.  The fewer competing light sources, the better.  But it is also very important to remember the widest part of the Aurora is when the sun is on the opposite side of the earth. So late, nighttime (or early morning) dark tends to be best.<br/><br/><br/>
<b>EXPECTATIONS</b><br/><br/>
Experienced Northern Lights hunters are familiar with disappointment.  Predictions of when the CME cloud or a high speed solar wind stream hits the earth are not always accurate.  Sometimes CME events produce much smaller displays than expected, or even none at all.  Also, it is possible the main auroral event happens during the day and therefore can only be enjoyed by people on the other side of the world where it's dark.<br/><br/>
Even with these uncertainties, seeing the grandeur of a powerful Aurora Borealis display may be a once in a lifetime event, so for some it's worth the gamble to try. <br/><br/>]]></description>
<author>help@softservenews.com (Jim Thomas)</author>
<category>Aurora Borealis</category>
</item>
<item>
<guid isPermaLink="false">e2b8ffe769fd747538119e95a8b30afa</guid>
<title>Aurora Storm Watch Update</title>
<link>https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/aurora-storm-watch-300375.html?catw=8949</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 13:06:01 +0000</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[<center>
<h1>Minor Aurora Storm Watch Issued </h1><br/><br/>
 <a href="http://www.torivarnaess.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/Tor_Ivar_Aurora_1255.jpg"  alt="Aurora Borealis" title="Aurora Borealis Storm"></a><br/> <span style='font-size:90%'><i>Photo by  <a href="http://www.torivarnaess.com/" target="_blank">Tor-Ivar Næss Photography</a></i></span>
</center>
<br/>
 <p><h2>UPDATE 1: NOAA has now increased the strength and length of the storm watch. 6 Kp possible. The article below has been updated.</h2></p><br>  <p><h2>UPDATE 2: NOAA has now increased the length of the storm watch to 96 hours.  The article below has been updated.</h2></p><br>  <p><h2>UPDATE 3: NOAA has updated this storm watch.  The info below has been updated to reflect the new info.</h2></p><br> <h2>Charged Particles from Sun heading towards Earth.</h2>	   
<p><h2>        <b>First 24 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b> <br>         <b>Next 24 hours: 6 Kp possible.</b> <br>         <b>Final 48 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b></h2></p>    
<h2>When does the Aurora storm watch begin?</h2>
<p><b> The storm watch begins at 03/30/2026 12:00 AM UTC.    See <a href='https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/aurora-storm-watch-300375.html#arivaltime'>here for storm forecast in your local time</a>.</p></b><br/>
<h3>Details and Northern Lights Viewing Tips</h3><br/>  
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a 96 hour magnetic storm watch indicating a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) or a high speed solar wind stream emanating from the Sun may be heading towards Earth.  These fast moving charged particles can cause a Northern Lights display.  
<br/><br/>
The storm watch begins at 03/30/2026 12:00 AM UTC.    See <a href='https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/aurora-storm-watch-300375.html#arivaltime'>here for storm forecast in your local time</a>.  It is important to note that these are only NOAA's estimates.   Real-time Aurora Borealis forecasts can be obtained at the <a href="https://cdn.softservenews.com/Aurora.htm">Aurora Borealis Forecast</a> page at Soft Serve News.  
<br/><br/>
NOAA estimates the solar wind stream currently headed towards Earth might produce a Kp (geomagnetic activity level) as indicated below, but again that's never fully known until the particles actually hit Earth:  
<br/><br/>        <b>First 24 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b> <br>         <b>Next 24 hours: 6 Kp possible.</b> <br>         <b>Final 48 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b><br/><br/>Stronger CMEs can sometimes cause trouble for satellites and create problems with electrical grids by inducing currents as the CME cloud interacts with the magnetic field that surrounds the earth.  It is this disturbance of the Earth's magnetic field which is <a href="https://cdn.softservenews.com/what-causes-the-aurora-borealis.html" target="_blank">the cause of the Northern Lights</a>.  NOAA indicates that high-latitude power systems may experience voltage alarms.  Also, satellites may require corrective actions due to increased drag from the atmosphere.<br/><br/>
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, can range from a faint green glow on the northern horizon to a multicolored, full-sky display which can be one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring scenes in nature.    <br/><br/>
<center>
<img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/soft-serve-news-aurora-2.jpg" alt="northern lights soft serve news" Width = "700">
</center>
<br/><br/><br/><br/>
<b>WILL YOU BE ABLE TO SEE THE AURORA?</b><br/><br/>
To determine if you can see the Northern Lights use the following four steps:<br/><br/>
<b>Step 1 -- Know your Location's "Kp number."</b><br/><br/>
The Kp number is the Geomagnetic Activity Level.  The stronger the Aurora, the larger the Kp number and the further south it can be seen.  Find the Kp number for your location on one of the maps below.  On the night you wish to view, periodically check the <a href="https://cdn.softservenews.com/Aurora.htm">real-time Aurora Borealis Forecast</a>.  This will give you the Kp number prediction for the Aurora for the next hour or so.  If that number is greater or equal to the number on the map for your location, you're in luck.  Even if the predicted number is one point too low, it still might be worth a look.<br/><br/>
<center><b> North America</b></center><br/>
<center><img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/globeNW_big2.gif" alt="Kp map North America" Width = "700"> </center><br/><br/>
<center><b>Europe & Asia</b><br/><br/></center>
<center><img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/globeNE_big2.gif" alt="Europe and Asia" Width = "700"> </center><br/><br/></center>
<b>Step 2 -- Check the Ovation map.</b><br/><br/>
It is a good idea to get confirmation of activity with NOAA's Ovation map.  The Kp number gives nice info on how large the storm is, but the Ovation map does a better job of telling you if you can actually see it. It gives a 30 to 40 minute forecast of the size of the aurora along with a color-coded probability of seeing the aurora over various spots on the Earth. <br/><br/>
<center><br/><br/><img border="0" src="https://services.swpc.noaa.gov/images/aurora-forecast-northern-hemisphere.jpg" alt="Ovation forecast model - Northern hemisphere" Width = "500"><br/><br/><br/></center>
Look for light yellow, orange or, better yet, RED on the Ovation map instead of the usual dark green.<br/><br/>
One other thing about this map. From the reports I get, it sometimes underestimates the size of the Aurora, especially with larger Kp numbers. 
So if the Kp number looks good for your location, and the map is showing orange or red, that's good news for Aurora viewing. <br/><br/>
<b>Step 3 -- Check the Weather.</b><br/><br/>
Auroras happen in the upper atmosphere, so if there are clouds blocking your view of the stars, you won't be able to see the Aurora.  <br/><br/>
<b>Step 4 -- Shop for a Dark Spot.</b><br/><br/>
Get away from those city lights.  Darkness is best for viewing the Aurora.  The fewer competing light sources, the better.  But it is also very important to remember the widest part of the Aurora is when the sun is on the opposite side of the earth. So late, nighttime (or early morning) dark tends to be best.<br/><br/><br/>
<b>EXPECTATIONS</b><br/><br/>
Experienced Northern Lights hunters are familiar with disappointment.  Predictions of when the CME cloud or a high speed solar wind stream hits the earth are not always accurate.  Sometimes CME events produce much smaller displays than expected, or even none at all.  Also, it is possible the main auroral event happens during the day and therefore can only be enjoyed by people on the other side of the world where it's dark.<br/><br/>
Even with these uncertainties, seeing the grandeur of a powerful Aurora Borealis display may be a once in a lifetime event, so for some it's worth the gamble to try. <br/><br/>]]></description>
<author>help@softservenews.com (Jim Thomas)</author>
<category>Aurora Borealis</category>
</item>
<item>
<guid isPermaLink="false">0d8a15ab48b59042b6e05f4c950f450a</guid>
<title>Aurora Storm Watch Update</title>
<link>https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/aurora-storm-watch-300375.html?catw=1320</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 12:36:01 +0000</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[<center>
<h1>Minor Aurora Storm Watch Issued </h1><br/><br/>
 <a href="http://www.torivarnaess.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/Tor_Ivar_Aurora_1255.jpg"  alt="Aurora Borealis" title="Aurora Borealis Storm"></a><br/> <span style='font-size:90%'><i>Photo by  <a href="http://www.torivarnaess.com/" target="_blank">Tor-Ivar Næss Photography</a></i></span>
</center>
<br/>
 <p><h2>UPDATE 1: NOAA has now increased the strength and length of the storm watch. 6 Kp possible. The article below has been updated.</h2></p><br>  <p><h2>UPDATE 2: NOAA has now increased the length of the storm watch to 96 hours.  The article below has been updated.</h2></p><br> <h2>Charged Particles from Sun heading towards Earth.</h2>	   
<p><h2>        <b>First 24 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b> <br>         <b>Next 48 hours: 6 Kp possible.</b> <br>         <b>Final 24 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b></h2></p>    
<h2>When does the Aurora storm watch begin?</h2>
<p><b> The storm watch begins at 03/30/2026 12:00 AM UTC.    See <a href='https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/aurora-storm-watch-300375.html#arivaltime'>here for storm forecast in your local time</a>.</p></b><br/>
<h3>Details and Northern Lights Viewing Tips</h3><br/>  
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a 96 hour magnetic storm watch indicating a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) or a high speed solar wind stream emanating from the Sun may be heading towards Earth.  These fast moving charged particles can cause a Northern Lights display.  
<br/><br/>
The storm watch begins at 03/30/2026 12:00 AM UTC.    See <a href='https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/aurora-storm-watch-300375.html#arivaltime'>here for storm forecast in your local time</a>.  It is important to note that these are only NOAA's estimates.   Real-time Aurora Borealis forecasts can be obtained at the <a href="https://cdn.softservenews.com/Aurora.htm">Aurora Borealis Forecast</a> page at Soft Serve News.  
<br/><br/>
NOAA estimates the solar wind stream currently headed towards Earth might produce a Kp (geomagnetic activity level) as indicated below, but again that's never fully known until the particles actually hit Earth:  
<br/><br/>        <b>First 24 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b> <br>         <b>Next 48 hours: 6 Kp possible.</b> <br>         <b>Final 24 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b><br/><br/>Stronger CMEs can sometimes cause trouble for satellites and create problems with electrical grids by inducing currents as the CME cloud interacts with the magnetic field that surrounds the earth.  It is this disturbance of the Earth's magnetic field which is <a href="https://cdn.softservenews.com/what-causes-the-aurora-borealis.html" target="_blank">the cause of the Northern Lights</a>.  NOAA indicates that high-latitude power systems may experience voltage alarms.  Also, satellites may require corrective actions due to increased drag from the atmosphere.<br/><br/>
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, can range from a faint green glow on the northern horizon to a multicolored, full-sky display which can be one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring scenes in nature.    <br/><br/>
<center>
<img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/soft-serve-news-aurora-2.jpg" alt="northern lights soft serve news" Width = "700">
</center>
<br/><br/><br/><br/>
<b>WILL YOU BE ABLE TO SEE THE AURORA?</b><br/><br/>
To determine if you can see the Northern Lights use the following four steps:<br/><br/>
<b>Step 1 -- Know your Location's "Kp number."</b><br/><br/>
The Kp number is the Geomagnetic Activity Level.  The stronger the Aurora, the larger the Kp number and the further south it can be seen.  Find the Kp number for your location on one of the maps below.  On the night you wish to view, periodically check the <a href="https://cdn.softservenews.com/Aurora.htm">real-time Aurora Borealis Forecast</a>.  This will give you the Kp number prediction for the Aurora for the next hour or so.  If that number is greater or equal to the number on the map for your location, you're in luck.  Even if the predicted number is one point too low, it still might be worth a look.<br/><br/>
<center><b> North America</b></center><br/>
<center><img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/globeNW_big2.gif" alt="Kp map North America" Width = "700"> </center><br/><br/>
<center><b>Europe & Asia</b><br/><br/></center>
<center><img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/globeNE_big2.gif" alt="Europe and Asia" Width = "700"> </center><br/><br/></center>
<b>Step 2 -- Check the Ovation map.</b><br/><br/>
It is a good idea to get confirmation of activity with NOAA's Ovation map.  The Kp number gives nice info on how large the storm is, but the Ovation map does a better job of telling you if you can actually see it. It gives a 30 to 40 minute forecast of the size of the aurora along with a color-coded probability of seeing the aurora over various spots on the Earth. <br/><br/>
<center><br/><br/><img border="0" src="https://services.swpc.noaa.gov/images/aurora-forecast-northern-hemisphere.jpg" alt="Ovation forecast model - Northern hemisphere" Width = "500"><br/><br/><br/></center>
Look for light yellow, orange or, better yet, RED on the Ovation map instead of the usual dark green.<br/><br/>
One other thing about this map. From the reports I get, it sometimes underestimates the size of the Aurora, especially with larger Kp numbers. 
So if the Kp number looks good for your location, and the map is showing orange or red, that's good news for Aurora viewing. <br/><br/>
<b>Step 3 -- Check the Weather.</b><br/><br/>
Auroras happen in the upper atmosphere, so if there are clouds blocking your view of the stars, you won't be able to see the Aurora.  <br/><br/>
<b>Step 4 -- Shop for a Dark Spot.</b><br/><br/>
Get away from those city lights.  Darkness is best for viewing the Aurora.  The fewer competing light sources, the better.  But it is also very important to remember the widest part of the Aurora is when the sun is on the opposite side of the earth. So late, nighttime (or early morning) dark tends to be best.<br/><br/><br/>
<b>EXPECTATIONS</b><br/><br/>
Experienced Northern Lights hunters are familiar with disappointment.  Predictions of when the CME cloud or a high speed solar wind stream hits the earth are not always accurate.  Sometimes CME events produce much smaller displays than expected, or even none at all.  Also, it is possible the main auroral event happens during the day and therefore can only be enjoyed by people on the other side of the world where it's dark.<br/><br/>
Even with these uncertainties, seeing the grandeur of a powerful Aurora Borealis display may be a once in a lifetime event, so for some it's worth the gamble to try. <br/><br/>]]></description>
<author>help@softservenews.com (Jim Thomas)</author>
<category>Aurora Borealis</category>
</item>
<item>
<guid isPermaLink="false">2ad1f13c91cbd13a973b463333c49245</guid>
<title>Aurora Storm Watch Update</title>
<link>https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/aurora-storm-watch-300375.html?catw=2393</link>
<pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 06:36:01 +0000</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[<center>
<h1>Minor Aurora Storm Watch Issued </h1><br/><br/>
 <a href="http://www.torivarnaess.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/Tor_Ivar_Aurora_1255.jpg"  alt="Aurora Borealis" title="Aurora Borealis Storm"></a><br/> <span style='font-size:90%'><i>Photo by  <a href="http://www.torivarnaess.com/" target="_blank">Tor-Ivar Næss Photography</a></i></span>
</center>
<br/>
 <p><h2>UPDATE 1: NOAA has now increased the strength and length of the storm watch. 6 Kp possible. The article below has been updated.</h2></p><br> <h2>Charged Particles from Sun heading towards Earth.</h2>	   
<p><h2>        <b>First 24 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b> <br>         <b>Next 24 hours: 6 Kp possible.</b> <br>         <b>Final 24 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b></h2></p>    
<h2>When does the Aurora storm watch begin?</h2>
<p><b> The storm watch begins at 03/30/2026 12:00 AM UTC.    See <a href='https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/aurora-storm-watch-300375.html#arivaltime'>here for storm forecast in your local time</a>.</p></b><br/>
<h3>Details and Northern Lights Viewing Tips</h3><br/>  
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a 72 hour magnetic storm watch indicating a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) or a high speed solar wind stream emanating from the Sun may be heading towards Earth.  These fast moving charged particles can cause a Northern Lights display.  
<br/><br/>
The storm watch begins at 03/30/2026 12:00 AM UTC.    See <a href='https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/aurora-storm-watch-300375.html#arivaltime'>here for storm forecast in your local time</a>.  It is important to note that these are only NOAA's estimates.   Real-time Aurora Borealis forecasts can be obtained at the <a href="https://cdn.softservenews.com/Aurora.htm">Aurora Borealis Forecast</a> page at Soft Serve News.  
<br/><br/>
NOAA estimates the solar wind stream currently headed towards Earth might produce a Kp (geomagnetic activity level) as indicated below, but again that's never fully known until the particles actually hit Earth:  
<br/><br/>        <b>First 24 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b> <br>         <b>Next 24 hours: 6 Kp possible.</b> <br>         <b>Final 24 hours: 5 Kp possible.</b><br/><br/>Stronger CMEs can sometimes cause trouble for satellites and create problems with electrical grids by inducing currents as the CME cloud interacts with the magnetic field that surrounds the earth.  It is this disturbance of the Earth's magnetic field which is <a href="https://cdn.softservenews.com/what-causes-the-aurora-borealis.html" target="_blank">the cause of the Northern Lights</a>.  NOAA indicates that high-latitude power systems may experience voltage alarms.  Also, satellites may require corrective actions due to increased drag from the atmosphere.<br/><br/>
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, can range from a faint green glow on the northern horizon to a multicolored, full-sky display which can be one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring scenes in nature.    <br/><br/>
<center>
<img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/en/aurora-borealis-breaking-news/soft-serve-news-aurora-2.jpg" alt="northern lights soft serve news" Width = "700">
</center>
<br/><br/><br/><br/>
<b>WILL YOU BE ABLE TO SEE THE AURORA?</b><br/><br/>
To determine if you can see the Northern Lights use the following four steps:<br/><br/>
<b>Step 1 -- Know your Location's "Kp number."</b><br/><br/>
The Kp number is the Geomagnetic Activity Level.  The stronger the Aurora, the larger the Kp number and the further south it can be seen.  Find the Kp number for your location on one of the maps below.  On the night you wish to view, periodically check the <a href="https://cdn.softservenews.com/Aurora.htm">real-time Aurora Borealis Forecast</a>.  This will give you the Kp number prediction for the Aurora for the next hour or so.  If that number is greater or equal to the number on the map for your location, you're in luck.  Even if the predicted number is one point too low, it still might be worth a look.<br/><br/>
<center><b> North America</b></center><br/>
<center><img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/globeNW_big2.gif" alt="Kp map North America" Width = "700"> </center><br/><br/>
<center><b>Europe & Asia</b><br/><br/></center>
<center><img border="0" src="https://cdn.softservenews.com/globeNE_big2.gif" alt="Europe and Asia" Width = "700"> </center><br/><br/></center>
<b>Step 2 -- Check the Ovation map.</b><br/><br/>
It is a good idea to get confirmation of activity with NOAA's Ovation map.  The Kp number gives nice info on how large the storm is, but the Ovation map does a better job of telling you if you can actually see it. It gives a 30 to 40 minute forecast of the size of the aurora along with a color-coded probability of seeing the aurora over various spots on the Earth. <br/><br/>
<center><br/><br/><img border="0" src="https://services.swpc.noaa.gov/images/aurora-forecast-northern-hemisphere.jpg" alt="Ovation forecast model - Northern hemisphere" Width = "500"><br/><br/><br/></center>
Look for light yellow, orange or, better yet, RED on the Ovation map instead of the usual dark green.<br/><br/>
One other thing about this map. From the reports I get, it sometimes underestimates the size of the Aurora, especially with larger Kp numbers. 
So if the Kp number looks good for your location, and the map is showing orange or red, that's good news for Aurora viewing. <br/><br/>
<b>Step 3 -- Check the Weather.</b><br/><br/>
Auroras happen in the upper atmosphere, so if there are clouds blocking your view of the stars, you won't be able to see the Aurora.  <br/><br/>
<b>Step 4 -- Shop for a Dark Spot.</b><br/><br/>
Get away from those city lights.  Darkness is best for viewing the Aurora.  The fewer competing light sources, the better.  But it is also very important to remember the widest part of the Aurora is when the sun is on the opposite side of the earth. So late, nighttime (or early morning) dark tends to be best.<br/><br/><br/>
<b>EXPECTATIONS</b><br/><br/>
Experienced Northern Lights hunters are familiar with disappointment.  Predictions of when the CME cloud or a high speed solar wind stream hits the earth are not always accurate.  Sometimes CME events produce much smaller displays than expected, or even none at all.  Also, it is possible the main auroral event happens during the day and therefore can only be enjoyed by people on the other side of the world where it's dark.<br/><br/>
Even with these uncertainties, seeing the grandeur of a powerful Aurora Borealis display may be a once in a lifetime event, so for some it's worth the gamble to try. <br/><br/>]]></description>
<author>help@softservenews.com (Jim Thomas)</author>
<category>Aurora Borealis</category>
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