It’s a phenomenon that features amazing colored light displays that reminds us the world is beautiful and full of wonder. The Northern Lights, officially known in the Northern hemisphere as Aurora Borealis, are produced by millions of explosions of magnetic energy.
In May 2024, the lights danced around the Pacific Northwest skies in dazzling hues. If you didn’t get a glimpse, here are a few stunning displays from DEQ staff that capture the beauty of the Aurora Borealis.
There aren’t too many things like witnessing the Aurora dance across the sky with your own eyes over Trillium Lake, OR, by Brad S., DEQ’s Western Region Cleanup Program Manager.Phil D. said he had an “Epic night!” Not only did he catch the Pearl Jam concert at the Moda Center, he caught nature’s light show after walking home. Phil is DEQ’s Northwest Region Petroleum Cleanup Section Manager.Stephanie S. took a few photos at the view point around I-84 mile marker 24 – River Highway Historic Point. Stephanie is the Fuels Sector Reporting Specialist for the Office of Greenhouse Gas Programs at DEQ Headquarters. Stephanie S. took this shot of the Northern Lights near Rooster Rock State Park. Stephanie is the Fuels Sector Reporting Specialist for the Office of Greenhouse Gas Programs at DEQ Headquarters. The colors of the northern lights vary: Here, blues, purples, maroons, greens and other hues paint the night sky. Tina E., Springfield, OR 2024. Tina is the Cleanup Project Manager for the Western Region Environmental Cleanup Program. Annie R. was on the beach when she saw the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Annie is a public affairs specialist for the Cleanup Program at DEQ Headquarters.Beth M. took this dramatic photo in Lake Oswego at the top of a hill. Beth is the Water Quality General Permit Coordinator at Headquarters.Even alone, seeing the northern lights is a memorable experience, but it’s special to share the moment with a friend — even if it’s not in Oregon. Andrea M. shared her son’s view from St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. Andrea is the Lower Willamette Basin Coordinator/Watersheds Team Lead, DEQ Northwest Region.
