Fairbanks Aurora Forecast Hourly: What You Need to Know

If you are planning a trip to Fairbanks, Alaska and want to witness the beauty of the Northern Lights, then it’s important to know the Fairbanks aurora forecast hourly. The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with the Earth’s atmosphere, creating a beautiful display of lights in the night sky. The aurora is most visible in Fairbanks during the winter months when the nights are long and dark. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about the Fairbanks aurora forecast hourly.

What is the Aurora Forecast?

The aurora forecast is a prediction of how likely it is that the Northern Lights will be visible in a specific location. The forecast is based on several factors, including solar activity, cloud cover, and geomagnetic conditions. In Fairbanks, the aurora forecast is provided by several websites, including the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

Where to Check the Aurora Forecast in Fairbanks?

There are several websites that provide the Fairbanks aurora forecast hourly. The Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks is one of the most reliable sources for the aurora forecast. The institute provides a daily aurora forecast, as well as hourly updates on their website. Other websites that provide the aurora forecast include the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC), and Aurora Alerts Northern Lights Forecast.

How to Read the Aurora Forecast?

The aurora forecast is measured on a scale of 0 to 9, with 0 indicating that the aurora is not visible and 9 indicating that the aurora will be very active and visible overhead. The forecast also includes a Kp-index, which measures the strength of the geomagnetic storm. A Kp-index of 0 to 2 indicates a quiet geomagnetic storm and a Kp-index of 7 or higher indicates a severe geomagnetic storm.

Why is it Important to Check the Aurora Forecast?

Checking the Fairbanks aurora forecast hourly is important because it allows you to plan the best time to view the Northern Lights. If the aurora forecast is high, it means that the aurora will be more visible and active. If the forecast is low, it may not be worth staying out all night to see the Northern Lights. Checking the aurora forecast allows you to plan your visit to Fairbanks to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

What Else You Should Consider?

While the Fairbanks aurora forecast hourly is an important factor to consider when planning to see the Northern Lights, there are other factors to keep in mind as well. The weather, for example, can greatly impact your ability to see the aurora. If it is cloudy or raining, the Northern Lights may not be visible. It is also important to get away from any light pollution when viewing the Northern Lights. The darker the sky, the better the view of the aurora.

Conclusion

If you are planning a trip to Fairbanks to see the Northern Lights, checking the aurora forecast hourly is a must. By keeping an eye on the forecast, you can plan the best time to view the Northern Lights and increase your chances of witnessing this beautiful natural phenomenon. Remember, there are other factors to consider as well, such as the weather and light pollution, so be prepared and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska.