URGENT UPDATE: Arizona is witnessing an extraordinary phenomenon as the aurora borealis lights up the skies, with a second night of this rare event expected to be even more breathtaking. Just last night, on November 11, 2023, residents across Arizona, especially in Fountain Hills, experienced a vibrant display of the northern lights, a spectacle typically reserved for polar regions.
Photographers and stargazers are flocking to these dark sky locations, eager to capture what could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Local parking lots have turned into makeshift viewing spots, buzzing with excitement as people prepare for tonight’s anticipated display. “So rare to see the northern lights in Arizona; we were really lucky to see them last night,” said Vicky Derksen, a stargazing tour leader from Night Sky Tourist. She noted how the local mountain range minimizes light pollution, providing ideal conditions for this celestial event.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the stunning auroras are the result of powerful solar storms categorized as G4, indicating strong intensity. These storms have allowed the northern lights to be visible across several states, a rarity heightened by the sun’s current maximum activity phase.
Experienced photographer Randy Woods captured stunning images of the aurora at Lake Pleasant last night. “Because it’s a rare event, like shooting lightning or a unique occurrence, that’s what makes it special,” Woods stated. He urged aspiring photographers to seize the moment, emphasizing that “everyone’s got a camera that can shoot aurora now. Take anything you can out there; it doesn’t need to be fancy.”
For those hoping to witness or photograph the stunning lights tonight, experts recommend seeking out quiet, dark locations away from urban light pollution. Typically, auroras are more common near the poles, but during peak solar activity, they can travel much further south. This week, Arizona is unexpectedly becoming a hotspot for aurora enthusiasts.
To maximize your viewing experience, check real-time forecasts via the NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center or use an aurora forecasting app. Clear skies are essential, as clouds can obscure this incredible natural display. Interestingly, a smartphone camera set to night mode can often capture more details of the aurora than the naked eye can see.
Don’t miss out on this mesmerizing spectacle; the opportunity to witness such a dazzling display of the northern lights in Arizona is rare and fleeting. Share your experiences and photographs as the excitement builds for another night under the extraordinary Arizona sky.
