A strong solar storm is currently heading toward Earth, triggering a rare opportunity for skywatchers to witness the northern lights across much of the United States and parts of Europe. The storm, fueled by multiple coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from the sun earlier this week, has prompted a geomagnetic storm watch from the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Regions far south of the Arctic Circle may catch a glimpse of this natural spectacle, which is usually reserved for high-latitude areas near the magnetic poles.
Scientists note that the ongoing solar cycle’s peak phase is enhancing the frequency and intensity of such events, with more possible sightings expected throughout the year. But aside from their beauty, solar storms can have significant effects on satellite operations, communication systems, and power infrastructure.
Northern Lights: How solar storms create vibrant skies
The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are natural light displays that occur when charged solar particles collide with gases in Earth’s upper atmosphere. These interactions excite atmospheric particles—mainly oxygen and nitrogen—causing them to glow in vibrant hues of green, purple, and red.
Auroras typically occur near the poles due to the Earth’s magnetic field, which funnels solar particles toward polar regions. However, when geomagnetic storms—disturbances in Earth’s magnetosphere caused by solar wind—are particularly strong, the auroras can be visible much farther from the poles.
The sun is currently at or near solar maximum, the peak of its 11-year activity cycle during which sunspots, solar flares, and CMEs become more frequent. This increased solar activity leads to more opportunities for geomagnetic storms and thus auroral displays even in mid-latitude regions.
Areas most likely to see the Northern Lights
According to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, northern lights could be visible on Tuesday night and into Wednesday across a wider portion of the U.S. than usual. Forecasted regions for potential visibility include:
- Highly probable visibility: Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.
- Possible visibility under optimal conditions: Parts of northern Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, New York, and Pennsylvania.
The final intensity and visibility will depend on how the solar material interacts with Earth’s geomagnetic field upon arrival.
How solar storms affect Earth beyond the lights
While auroras are a visual benefit of solar storms, there are also serious impacts these events can cause. Solar storms are composed of high-energy particles and plasma that travel from the sun at speeds up to 1 million miles per hour. When they reach Earth, they can:
- Disrupt GPS and radio communications
- Affect satellite functionality and orbits
- Induce voltage irregularities in power lines, potentially damaging electrical grids
- Pose radiation risks to astronauts and high-altitude airline passengers
Historically, severe solar storms have caused significant events. The Carrington Event of 1859, the most powerful solar storm on record, produced auroras as far south as the Caribbean and caused telegraph systems worldwide to fail, even igniting fires. In 1972, a solar storm is believed to have inadvertently detonated sea mines off the coast of Vietnam due to magnetic interference.
Why are solar storms increasing
Solar activity follows an approximately 11-year cycle, during which the number of sunspots and intensity of solar flares vary. The sun is now in the active phase (solar maximum) of this cycle, which began in December 2019 and is expected to peak sometime in late 2024 or 2025.
During this time, solar poles flip and complex magnetic interactions occur on the sun’s surface, creating conditions conducive to CMEs. According to both NASA and NOAA, the exact timing of the solar maximum is only clear after the peak has passed, but current patterns suggest continued heightened activity for the rest of the year.
How to see the Northern Lights
For those hoping to catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis, preparation is key. Here are steps recommended by space weather experts:
- Check aurora forecasts: Use trusted sites like NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center or aurora tracking apps like My Aurora Forecast.
- Find a dark viewing location: Light pollution can obscure the view. Head to a local or national park or rural area for optimal visibility.
- Look north during peak hours: Best viewing times are typically between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time. Look toward the northern horizon, where the auroras tend to appear.
- Use a camera for help: Smartphone or DSLR cameras can often detect faint auroras not visible to the naked eye. Try using a long exposure setting for best results.
- Check the weather: Overcast skies can block auroral views entirely. Clear skies increase your chances of success.
A rare celestial opportunity
Though unpredictable in their timing and intensity, geomagnetic storms like this offer a rare opportunity for residents in mid-latitude regions to witness one of nature’s most dazzling phenomena. With solar activity continuing to rise, more such events are likely in the coming months. While enjoying the spectacle, it’s also important to remain aware of the broader implications of space weather and the efforts by space agencies to monitor and respond to potential technological disruptions.
