Geomagnetic storms might spark stunning northern lights deep into the US; here's when and where to look for the dazzling auroras
Where the northern Lights may be seen
Live Events
Northern California
Missouri
Kentucky
Alabama
When and how to watch
Move away from city lights
Find a location with a clear view of the northern horizon
Let your eyes adjust to the dark for 20–30 minutes
Check local forecasts for cloud cover
Possible impacts beyond Auroras
Minor power grid disturbances
Fluctuations in satellite operations
Degraded high-frequency radio communications, especially at high latitudes
A rare opportunity for skywatchers
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A rare and powerful geomagnetic storm could light up skies across large parts of the United States on Sunday night, June 2. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration ( NOAA ) has issued a G4 (severe) geomagnetic storm watch , one of the strongest alerts on its scale.The storm is the result of at least five coronal mass ejections (CMEs) launched from the sun between May 29 and May 31. These CMEs are massive bursts of solar material and magnetic fields ejected from an active sunspot region known as AR3664.As these solar eruptions travel toward Earth , they interact with the planet's magnetic field. If they hit directly, they can trigger vivid displays of auroras, also known as the northern lights NOAA says that auroras could be visible much farther south than usual if the storm reaches expected levels. Overhead displays are possible in states like Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and North Dakota. Fainter displays near the horizon might even be seen in places as far south as:However, local weather, cloud cover, and light pollution will depend on visibility. People in rural areas with clear, dark skies will have the best chance of seeing the show.The best time to catch the aurora is typically between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time. During this period, the sky is darkest, and solar activity may peak. To improve your chances:Using apps like My Aurora Forecast or visiting NOAA's aurora forecast website can help track real-time aurora activity in your area.While a G4 geomagnetic storm can produce breathtaking sky shows, it may temporarily disrupt some technology. NOAA warns of potential:Utilities and satellite operators have been alerted to prepare for potential issues. Geomagnetic storms of this strength are not common. If the CMEs arrive with the expected speed and intensity, this could be a rare chance for people living in much of the US, even far from the Arctic Circle, to witness the aurora borealis firsthand.
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