A powerful solar storm is marching toward Earth and could paint the night sky with vivid auroras, reaching far farther south than usual. Forecasters say the northern lights could be visible across much of the northern United States, extending into parts of the lower Midwest and Oregon, and may even be observable across large swaths of the United Kingdom if skies stay clear.
The storm is driven by a coronal mass ejection that erupted from the sun on Saturday, sending plasma and magnetic fields hurtling through space at speeds near 2 million miles per hour. The material is expected to reach Earth Monday evening and peak between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. Eastern time on Tuesday.
Forecasts indicate a quiet-to-moderate geomagnetic disturbance overnight, with the storm likely to trigger G2 to G3 conditions early in the evening. There is also a possibility of a stronger, G4-class event by Tuesday morning, though forecasters caution that this hinges on the strength and orientation of the CME’s magnetic field as it arrives about 1 million miles from Earth.
If the storm unfolds as predicted, dazzling auroral displays could line the sky from upper Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, and into northern New York and northern New England. The UK’s Met Office suggested that auroras may be visible across much of the United Kingdom, potentially without the need for specialized photography equipment, provided skies are dark and clear. Moonlight from a waxing gibbous moon, however, could hinder viewing in some areas.
What causes the glow in the sky is the interaction between solar particles from the CME and the Earth’s atmosphere. As charged particles collide with atoms high in the atmosphere, oxygen often emits a green glow while nitrogen can produce blue and purple hues.
Even as forecasters point to a potentially strong aurora show, they emphasize that this event could also bring minor disruptions to technology. Small GPS and radio disturbances, and in some cases minor power-grid impacts, are possible but usually manageable with standard precautions.
The broader context is the sun’s current phase known as the solar maximum, the peak of an 11-year cycle of solar activity. This period tends to bring more frequent and intense space weather events, so more spectacular auroras could be on the horizon in the weeks and months ahead.
Summary of key points: a CME is driving a likely moderate-to-strong geomagnetic storm tonight into Tuesday; auroras could be visible far south of typical ranges across parts of the US and the UK; Moonlight may affect visibility; minor tech disruptions are possible but expected to be manageable.
Viewing tips: find a dark, clear location away from city lights, give your eyes time to adjust, and keep an eye on local aurora forecasts for exact viewing windows. Dress warmly and be prepared to stay up late if you want the best chance to catch the display.
Positive note: for skywatchers and families, this is a rare, accessible opportunity to witness the beauty of space weather firsthand and a reminder of the dynamic connection between the Sun and our planet.
Notes for readers: conditions can change quickly with space weather, so check local forecasts for updated viewing windows and any advisories before heading outdoors. The strongest displays are usually seen away from artificial light and with clear, dark skies.
If you’re compiling readers’ guides, consider including a simple map of expected visibility regions, a short glossary of space-weather terms (CME, geomagnetic storm, G-scale), and links to reputable aurora forecasts or apps that provide real-time alerts.
Overall sentiment: hopeful and informative, emphasizing the natural spectacle while noting the potential minor effects on technology.