Northern Lights Could Be Visible Across Illinois Tonight

Chasing the Glow: NOAA Issues Strong G3 Geomagnetic Storm Watch

This is it. This could be the night I finally see the Northern Lights, the Aurora Borealis, whatever you want to call it.

I was grousing earlier this week about my inability to catch this event, which, the last time it was visible in our neck of the woods, absolutely lit up social media, with everyone boasting about how beautiful it was to see and all the amazing pictures they took.

READ MORE: Where You Can Rent a Two Story Island Themed Party Boat in Illinois

The Science Behind the Storm: Multiple CMEs Headed for Earth

For me, I would drive in the wrong direction (true story), give up, go on the wrong day, forget about it, or get rained or clouded out. NOAA has issued a strong G3 geomagnetic storm watch, and they think the event could produce some good old Northern Lights.

The forecast models say the best viewing chances are extending as far south as Seattle, Chicago, and Boston, and if the Windy City is getting grouped in, you know Rockford and the surrounding areas have just as good a chance as any to see the lights.

READ MORE: Experience the Wild Side: Music, Brews, & Wildlife at Chicago's Lincoln Park Zoo

Rockford Weather Reality: Will Clouds Ruin the Celestial Show?

Now here’s the hook, because there’s always a hook. Weather. Apparently, the weather could be a challenge, as some areas, including Rockford, might also see storms, and if that happens, there will be no Aurora Borealis.

Let’s keep our fingers crossed and eyes open because maybe we’ll see the lights tonight, but I’m not very hopeful. I’ll probably end up facing the wrong way.