Solar Storm May Bring Northern Lights to U.S. and Canadian Skies

A powerful solar storm is currently making its way toward Earth—and it could put on a rare show for millions of skywatchers. The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are expected to be visible well beyond their typical polar range, lighting up skies as far south as Illinois and New York.

What’s Causing the Surge in Aurora Sightings?

Earlier this week, the sun released multiple coronal mass ejections (CMEs)—massive bursts of charged particles. These ejections are slamming into Earth’s magnetic field, triggering geomagnetic storms. According to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, these conditions make auroras more likely and visible in places that don’t typically see them.

The sun is currently in the peak phase of its 11-year solar cycle, a time when solar activity naturally increases. This cycle reversal leads to more solar storms and vivid auroras, and forecasters expect these dazzling shows to continue on and off throughout the year.

Where Will the Northern Lights Be Visible?

The best chances of seeing the aurora borealis will be from Tuesday through Thursday night, particularly in:

Canada: Most northern regions will have a high chance of visibility, especially away from city lights.
United States: 18 states could catch the display, including Alaska, Minnesota, North Dakota, Michigan, Vermont, and Maine. States farther south like Illinois, New York, and Pennsylvania may also get a glimpse under the right conditions.

The Kp index, which measures geomagnetic activity, is expected to reach level 6—indicating strong aurora potential.

When and How to Watch

Your best viewing window? Between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, when skies are darkest.

To improve your chances:

Head far from city lights
Look north, ideally from a hill or unobstructed area
Use an aurora app or NOAA’s website for real-time updates
Try taking a photo with your smartphone—cameras often catch color before your eyes do

Even if you’re not directly under the aurora, the display can often be seen up to 1,000 km away from where the activity peaks.

What Else Do Solar Storms Do?

While auroras are beautiful, geomagnetic storms can bring more serious impacts. Past solar events have:

Disrupted GPS and satellite communications
Caused power outages
Even detonated sea mines, as during the 1972 Vietnam War

Fortunately, space weather forecasters monitor activity closely and issue warnings in the days leading up to major events.

What’s Next?

Expect more auroras this year as solar activity remains high. But remember—these displays are often unpredictable. If you have clear skies and the chance, take a moment to look up. You might catch a once-in-a-decade light show.

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What’s Causing the Surge in Aurora Sightings?