Because the sun constantly expels particles, the auroral oval is always present and those in far northern latitudes see displays almost every clear night. In mid-latitudes they may see displays three to six nights a year, while those in southern latitudes, once a year. People that far south, see aurorae only after our Sun has a massive outburst of particles generated by some solar flares. While the upper atmosphere comes under such an assault, the auroral oval creeps farther south. Observers in northern latitudes see a spectacular display, those to the south might spot an unanticipated red glow to the north horizon.
Spectacular displays are predictable because particle streams take about three days to reach Earth.
Besides creating aurorae, particle influxes also wreak havoc on Earth's ionosphere and magnetic fields, causing electrical and radio communication blackouts. When Solar forecasters predict a geomagnetic storm, be on the lookout for an upswing in auroral activity. 50mm F2 Fuji 800. OM1 50mmF2 Konica 3200. 5 minute exposure Kristy Hodgson, my daughter.