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Geomagnetic Storm Watch: Northern Lights Expected in 20 States

4/19/2026

37 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Space Weather Prediction Center issued a G2 geomagnetic storm watch and warned of a potential G3 event that could bring the northern lights to nearly 20 northern U.S. states on April 17 into early April 18.
Viewing is best in dark locations away from city lights between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.
New York, Idaho, and Michigan have the best chances.
Observers should use a camera for the auroras.

History

Historical Context

The Carrington Event, occurring on September 1-2, 1859, was the most intense geomagnetic storm recorded, triggered by a solar flare observed by astronomers Richard Carrington and Richard Hodgson. This event disrupted telegraph systems across Europe and North America, causing sparks and fires. Understanding such historical solar storms is crucial today, as modern technology remains vulnerable to similar cosmic phenomena.

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Story summary

The Space Weather Prediction Center issued a G2 geomagnetic storm watch and warned of a potential G3 event that could bring the northern lights to nearly 20 northern U.S. states on April 17 into early April 18.
Viewing is best in dark locations away from city lights between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.
New York, Idaho, and Michigan have the best chances.
Observers should use a camera for the auroras.

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