A powerful solar storm is expected to light up skies across the U.S., bringing rare aurora displays far south of their usual range. Here's where and how to watch.
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| A geomagnetic storm may spark rare aurora sightings across the U.S., thanks to solar eruptions from the sun. Here's what causes it and how to view the lights. Image: NASA |
WASHINGTON, USA — April 16, 2025:
A strong solar storm is set to hit Earth, potentially creating a breathtaking show of northern lights across a wide swath of the United States. The storm, driven by multiple coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from the sun, has prompted the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center to issue a geomagnetic storm watch, alerting skygazers and officials alike.
Normally limited to high-latitude regions, the aurora borealis may become visible Tuesday night in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Montana, the Dakotas, Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Parts of Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, New York, and Pennsylvania may also catch glimpses of the colorful skies if conditions align.
“The extent of visibility depends on how Earth’s magnetic field reacts when the solar material hits,” said Shawn Dahl, forecaster at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.
The sun is in the peak phase of its 11-year solar cycle, a period of intense activity when solar flares and magnetic storms are more common. These geomagnetic storms occur when high-energy particles from the sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere, producing dazzling auroras.
Such phenomena have already been observed this year in unexpected regions. In recent months, strong storms lit up skies across Europe and the northeastern United States, with sightings as far south as New York City and the U.K.
While spectacular to view, solar storms are not without risks. The same energy that fuels auroras can disrupt GPS systems, power grids, satellites, and radio communications. In extreme historical cases, solar storms have caused telegraph systems to fail and, in 1972, may have even detonated sea mines during the Vietnam War.
Experts recommend heading to a dark, clear location away from city lights. Northern or rural areas with open skies offer the best chances. Forecast updates are available through NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center and popular aurora tracking apps.
NASA astrophysicist Kelly Korreck also suggests trying smartphone photography:
“Your phone’s camera can often capture auroras the eye may miss. It’s one of the best cosmic shows you can witness.”
The sun’s heightened activity is expected to continue through the end of 2025, making this year a promising time for skywatchers across the globe. As space weather continues to evolve, more brilliant light displays may be just around the corner.