Northern lights observed across Russian regions due to magnetic storm

Due to a powerful solar flare, the northern lights can be seen not only in the north, but also in other parts of Russia. This was reported by 51.RU, citing Murmansk-based professional aurora hunter Tikhon Nikolaev.

«If other regions have clear skies and if you know where and when to look, you can see the aurora even in Rostov-on-Don or in the Caucasus,» noted Tikhon.

However, a high geomagnetic activity index does not at all mean that residents and visitors of the Arctic will be able to enjoy the northern lights.

«A high index means that the aurora may be located further from the north. And it»s a matter of luck. Here it might be quite pale, while, for example, in Karelia or St. Petersburg — powerful. We can see a much more beautiful aurora if there is a regular solar wind from a coronal hole and not such a high index,« said the specialist.

Recall that a magnetic storm hit Earth on January 20. Weather-sensitive residents of Murmansk Oblast may experience weakness and headaches.