Northern Lights May Appear During November Super Moon in Wisconsin
Wisconsinites have the opportunity to witness the northern lights on November 5, coinciding with the November super full moon and the Taurids meteor shower. Wednesday night promises three distinct celestial events visible in Wisconsin.
Celestial Events on November 5 and 6
- The November super full moon will be visible across the state.
- The Taurids meteor shower will accompany the super moon.
- The northern lights might appear, especially in northern Wisconsin on November 5 and across the entire state on November 6.
Aurora Forecast and Activity
According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC), the aurora visibility is forecasted with a Kp index of 3 on November 5 and 5 on November 6. The Kp index indicates geomagnetic activity:
"If the lights are visible, they will likely be brighter and there will be more auroral activity when they’re in the three to five KP index range since they’re further from the poles."
The SWPC also offers a short-term forecast tool that predicts the aurora's location and intensity for the next 30 to 90 minutes.
Weather Conditions in Northern Wisconsin
Most of northern Wisconsin, including Green Bay and Appleton, is expected to have mostly clear skies on November 5, enhancing chances to observe the aurora. However, rain is forecasted across much of the state, including Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Appleton, and Wausau, which might hinder viewing opportunities.
Summary
On November 5, viewers in northern Wisconsin may see the northern lights alongside the super full moon and meteor shower, provided the skies remain clear despite widespread rain elsewhere in the state.
Author's summary: Wisconsin residents could witness the northern lights during November’s super full moon and meteor shower, especially under clearer northern skies on November 5 and 6, despite rain in other areas.