Parts of the US to see northern lights this weekend. See how the phenomenon looks from space

United States is in for a pleasant surprise this weekend as some part of the country will get a chance to see Aurora Borealis or northern lights.

This stunning spectacle will be caused due to the geomagnetic storm from the sun. Canada has already seen the spectacle due to this phenomenon.



An unstable patch on the surface of the Sun is directly facing our planet causing solar flares and geomagnetic storms.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted geomagnetic ejections from August 17 to 19.

"Forecast confidence is low to moderate regarding Earth impact of these CMEs (coronal mass ejections) as most of the ejecta is expected to pass either ahead or south of Earth’s orbit," the agency said. "However, model runs indicate combined arrival of some of these CMEs at or in the vicinity of Earth beginning 18 Aug – therefore, the G3 (Strong) storm watch is in effect for that day," it said.

"If other factors come together, the aurora might be seen over portions of Pennsylvania, Iowa, to northern Oregon," the NOAA added.

NASA's Bob Hines shared pictures of the aurora borealis from the International Space Station on Twitter.

"Absolutely SPECTACULAR aurora today!!! Thankful for the recent solar activity resulting in these wonderful sights!", he tweeted.

Aurora Borealis is a phenomenon which occurs when charged particles in the solar wind hit particles in Earth's upper atmosphere.

Northern lights are usually seen in areas closer to the poles.