Northern Lights Expected to Dazzle Across the Northern U.S.

A significant geomagnetic storm is forecasted to bring the aurora borealis to regions of the northern United States, with visibility potentially extending as far south as Illinois and Oregon. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center, this event is linked to a coronal mass ejection (CME) that occurred earlier in the week. The storm is currently classified as a G2, or "moderate," level on a scale that ranges from G1 (minor) to G5 (extreme). Forecasters have indicated that conditions may escalate to a G3, or "strong," storm, which would further enhance the chances of viewing the northern lights.

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The aurora borealis is created when charged particles from the sun collide with atoms in Earth's atmosphere, resulting in shimmering displays of light. The CME, which consists of a billion tons of solar material, travels at speeds exceeding one million miles per hour. As these particles interact with Earth's magnetic field, they produce the colorful phenomena known as the northern lights. The timing and intensity of the storm's effects are contingent upon the CME's arrival at Earth, which is expected to occur late Thursday morning.

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Experts recommend optimal viewing conditions for the aurora, suggesting that individuals seek locations away from city lights, such as national parks. The best viewing times are anticipated to be between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. on the night of the storm. Clear skies will enhance visibility, and the current weather forecast indicates favorable conditions across much of the affected regions. Observers are encouraged to monitor real-time updates from the Space Weather Prediction Center to track the geomagnetic storm's progress.

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The current geomagnetic storm is part of a larger cycle of solar activity, known as the solar cycle, which influences the frequency and intensity of solar flares and CMEs. The peak of this cycle is expected to persist through the latter half of 2026, suggesting that additional opportunities to view the northern lights may arise in the coming months. The ongoing solar activity underscores the dynamic relationship between solar phenomena and Earth's atmospheric conditions.

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While NOAA has issued a G2 storm watch, some sources speculate that the storm could reach G3 levels, enhancing visibility further south. However, the exact impact and reach of the storm remain uncertain until the CME interacts with Earth's magnetic field.

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• “Anything reaching G2 levels at favorable early evening/dark hours could lead to the aurora being seen from northern New England,” — Shawn Dahl, Service Coordinator, NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center

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• “The solar cycle continues to be at maximum in early 2026.” — Ken Mahan, Boston Globe

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