Space weather experts have revealed that the set of major solar flares that were released earlier this week from the sun may amplify the northern lights’ display over parts of the northern United States through the weekend. They may even be witnessed over Oregon and along the coastline.

Weather forecasters and astronomers say that this week the solar flares were directed towards our planet earth and they may ignite the northern lights, known scientifically as aurora borealis.

William Murtagh, program coordinator for the U.S. Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) in Boulder, Colorado, states that the highest chance for catching the aurora borealis is Friday night. The good part is that the Oregon coast weather forecast like that of Portland is of clear skies for Friday.

Also, the coast will be excellent place to view the sky as it lacks interference of city lights, so the people of Portland or larger towns in Oregon should get out into the countryside.

The chances to view the lights also improve if you use higher quality camera equipment on a tripod and use high ASA settings as with such a set up a clear view that may not show up to the naked eye can be easily seen.

This week saw the eruption of two solar flares, one was on Monday and the other was on Wednesday. The Monday flare was of a long duration, which is what added to the excitement for the northern lights possibilities.

The solar flares witnessed were strong enough to be ranked an X-class, the highest class. Along with the dazzling light display, a flare of that magnitude has a very high potential to wreak havoc on GPS, radio frequencies, cellphone and satellite reception.

Considering the weather forecast, these lights will be visible in coastal towns as far south as Yachats or Florence, which includes Manzanita, Cannon Beach, Seaside, Rockaway Beach, Lincoln City and Newport.