RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — With the northern lights projected to be visible in various states in the U.S. tonight, many Virginia residents are wondering if they could be visible.
The northern lights, also referred to as ‘aurora borealis’ are a result of “electrons colliding with the upper reaches of Earth’s atmosphere,” according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Possible auroral activity is expected during the evening on Saturday, Nov. 11, but mainly in the Blue Ridge Mountains and Northern Virginia.
Visibility of the northern lights is dependent on many factors, including weather and light pollution.
Virginians have access to the following state parks designated as International Dark Sky Parks, which may provide a clearer view of the northern lights:
- Staunton River State Park, located at 1170 Staunton Trail in Scottsburg
- James River State Park, located at 104 Green Hill Dr. in Gladstone
- Natural Bridge State Park, located at 6477 South Lee Highway in Natural Bridge
- Sky Meadows State Park, located at 11012 Edmonds Ln. in Delaplane
