Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Solar Storms to Illuminate 12 States with Northern Lights

10/8/2025

35 6

Summary

Story summary

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts solar storms (G1–G2) will trigger northern lights across 12 U.S. states, including Alaska.
Auroras could be seen in northern Michigan, with peak on October 7.
Cloud cover may hinder visibility, especially in northern Michigan.
Colors arise from atmospheric gases; oxygen green, nitrogen blue or red. United Kingdom, especially Scotland, may see them.

History

Historical Context

The Carrington Event, occurring on September 1-2, 1859, was the most intense geomagnetic storm recorded, caused by a coronal mass ejection from the Sun. It disrupted telegraph systems across North America and Europe, igniting fires and delivering shocks to operators. This event highlighted the Sun's significant impact on Earth's technology, with modern forecasts predicting similar storms could affect electrical grids and communications today.

1 of 2

Story summary

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts solar storms (G1–G2) will trigger northern lights across 12 U.S. states, including Alaska.
Auroras could be seen in northern Michigan, with peak on October 7.
Cloud cover may hinder visibility, especially in northern Michigan.
Colors arise from atmospheric gases; oxygen green, nitrogen blue or red. United Kingdom, especially Scotland, may see them.

1 / 2