Current Aurora Forecast
for Whitehorse, Yukon
Forecaster's Comments: The solar wind velocity is currently low at 460 km/s. While this is certainly not the only indicator for a spectacular aurora display it doesn't help to increase our chances. However, particle density impacting the earth is pretty respectable coming in at 2 protons/cm3. These higher density numbers can help improve the overall spread of the aurora we see.
The Bz value of the Interplanetary Magnetic Field is current acting in a northward direction at a value of 2 nT which doesn't help the flow of energy particles into our atmosphere. The interplanetary magnetic field can change significantly in a short period of time. A change in direction to a southward or negative value can increase the potential for active aurora by allowing more energy particles to enter our upper atmosphere. In this scenario we can expect to experience aurora sub-storms and will be reflected by a significant jump in the aurora activity level indicated on this page.
Aurora Activity Level 3/10: Aurora borealis activity is currently moderately low. Weather permitting, northern lights displays will be visible directly overhead from Dawson City to Watson Lake and visible toward the northern horizon from Whitehorse.
Extended 3-Day Activity Forecast Description (Mar 17 to Mar 19): The geomagnetic field is expected to be at quiet to unsettled levels for the next two days (17-18 March) due to a coronal hole high-speed stream on Mar 17 and the arrival of partial halo CME arriving on Mar 18. Geomagnetic activity levels are expected to return to quiet levels on Mar 19 (19 March).