Northern Lights Set to Dazzle U.S. Skies Amid Strong Solar Activity

A significant surge of solar energy is expected to illuminate the night skies across the United States, particularly from March 19 into early March 20, 2026. This event is driven by a coronal mass ejection (CME) that erupted from the Sun on March 16, leading to geomagnetic storms classified as G2, with potential peaks reaching G3. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a geomagnetic storm watch, indicating that up to 20 states may witness the aurora borealis, especially in areas near the Canadian border.

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The best opportunities to view the northern lights will occur overnight, particularly between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time. States with the highest likelihood of visibility include Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Maine. If the storm intensifies, faint displays may extend as far south as parts of Oregon, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Ohio, New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire. Clear skies and minimal light pollution are crucial for optimal viewing; thus, individuals are encouraged to seek locations away from city lights.

Northern Lights Forecast: 18 US states expected to witness aurora borealis — Best Time and conditions to watch

For those interested in capturing the aurora borealis, preparation is key. Using a smartphone's Night Mode or Pro Mode can yield satisfactory results without the need for professional equipment. A tripod is recommended for stability, and photographers should ensure their devices are fully charged, as cold weather can deplete battery life quickly. Adjusting camera settings to a wide aperture and focusing on infinity can enhance image clarity.

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NOAA emphasizes the unpredictability of auroras, advising skywatchers to monitor real-time forecasts for the most accurate conditions. The agency's 30-minute aurora forecast is particularly useful for tracking geomagnetic activity. Experts note that March is a favorable month for aurora sightings due to the equinox effect, which enhances interactions between solar wind and Earth's magnetic field.

People MagazineTime to watch the skies! The odds for northern lights photography this week just got even betterNorthern Lights Forecast: 18 US states expected to witness aurora borealis — Best Time and conditions to watchPeople Magazine

While the excitement surrounding the aurora borealis is palpable, some experts caution that heightened solar activity can disrupt satellite communications and affect aviation systems, particularly on polar routes. There is also a minor risk of radiation storms that could impact astronauts aboard the International Space Station.

Northern Lights Forecast: 18 US states expected to witness aurora borealis — Best Time and conditions to watch

Forecasts indicate varying levels of geomagnetic activity, with some sources suggesting conditions could peak around 8 PM ET on March 19, while others predict a second peak around 11 PM ET on March 20. This discrepancy highlights the inherent uncertainty in predicting auroral displays.

Time to watch the skies! The odds for northern lights photography this week just got even better

• “For reference, the northern lights ( aurora borealis ) are caused by geomagnetic storms, which occur when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in Earth's atmosphere, creating brilliant waves of light in the sky.” — NOAA

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As the spring equinox approaches, enthusiasts and casual observers alike are encouraged to prepare for this celestial spectacle, keeping in mind the necessary conditions for a successful viewing experience.

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