Ontarians have a chance to see the stunning northern lights again on Monday night, Canada Reviews

Parts of Southern Ontario might have a chance to see the Northern Lights on Monday! The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Centre (SWPC) has forecasted that geomagnetic storms could possibly be seen across parts of Canada on Monday as well.

“Periods of G3 (Strong) geomagnetic storms are likely on 16 Sep 2024 due to coronal hole influences and the anticipated arrival of a CME associated with an X4.5 flare at 14/1529 UTC from AR3825.”

Space Weather Canada explained that a major geomagnetic storm watch is in effect for the auroral zone (where the greatest geomagnetic disturbances are observed) from Sept. 16 at 12 noon until Sept. 17 at noon.

The agency explained that a coronal mass ejection (CME, an ejection of the Sun’s material) was observed on Friday, heading toward Earth. This resulted in disturbed geomagnetic conditions in the auroral zone on Sunday night and this morning (although not much was reported across social media in Southern Ontario).

Another coronal mass ejection was observed on Saturday — this is also heading toward Earth and is expected to result in disturbed geomagnetic conditions in the auroral zone today and tomorrow.

The Aurora viewing — a majestic, colourful display of light that looks glorious in the night sky —  might not be as spectacular as the viewings we saw across Southern Ontario back in May, but it’s definitely something to look out for if you have a chance tonight (and if you’re looking for the perfect area to view the awe-inspiring night skies, try visiting one of these spots relatively close to Toronto).

September’s geomagnetic conditions are just part of the many celestial activities Toronto has experienced this year. Last month, Torontonians enjoyed a full moon Supermoon. In April, we beheld a once-in-a-lifetime Great North American solar eclipse followed by a planetary parade that was more than two centuries in the making.

Of course, there are other celestial activities you can look out for later this year, including the Draconid Meteor Shower from Oct. 6-10 (peaking on the night of Oct. 7), as well as the Geminids Meteor Shower, which is considered the king of the meteor showers, producing up to 120 multicolored meteors per hour at its peak! This will run from Dec. 7-17, peaking the night of Dec. 13th and the morning of Dec. 14th.