BREAKING: A remarkable solar storm has just illuminated the night sky over Ballarat, with residents witnessing a breathtaking display of the aurora australis—also known as the Southern Lights. This stunning phenomenon occurred on the night of January 20, captivating skywatchers across Australia.
As the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) reported, the geomagnetic storm reached a level classified as major-severe, resulting in an unusually vibrant aurora visible in areas with minimal light pollution. Many residents traveled outside the city limits to catch the spectacular display, which was best seen in darker locations.
Auroras are created when solar particles ejected from the sun collide with Earth’s magnetic fields. This particular storm generated a dazzling show, with colors dancing across the sky, offering an unforgettable experience for those fortunate enough to see it. According to BOM officials, there is a chance of lingering minor storm activity on January 21-22, potentially providing another opportunity for breathtaking views.
A BOM spokesperson emphasized, “Bright auroras can be visible at lower latitudes than usual when geomagnetic storms at this intensity occur, including dark-sky locations in the southern Australian region.”
If you managed to capture images of the aurora, share your best photos with us at [email protected]. Your contributions could help others appreciate this extraordinary event!
Stay tuned for updates as this developing story unfolds, and keep an eye on the skies for any additional aurora activity in the coming days.
