Get ready for a cosmic show! A “severe” geomagnetic storm could make the northern lights—those glowing curtains of color in the night sky—visible over much of the U.S., possibly stretching as far south as Alabama and southern California. If you’ve ever wanted to see the aurora borealis without a trip to Alaska or Canada, this may be your chance.
Let’s break down what’s happening, what it means for you, and how to step outside for the best chance at seeing nature’s own light display.
Understanding the Upcoming Geomagnetic Storm
A severe geomagnetic storm isn’t something you hear about every day. Before heading outside with your phone in hand, here’s what you should know.
What is a Geomagnetic Storm?
A geomagnetic storm is a fancy way of saying Earth’s magnetic field gets disturbed by something from space. The main culprit? The Sun.
During certain solar events, the Sun sends out huge bursts of energy and particles, called a coronal mass ejection (CME). This is when the Sun basically spits out a chunk of its atmosphere, which then blasts toward Earth at up to several million miles per hour. These solar storms can reach our planet in as little as 18 hours, or take up to three days.
When this cloud of charged solar material arrives, its magnetic field tangles with Earth's magnetic field. The way these magnetic fields interact determines how powerful the ensuing storm becomes—and how vivid the auroras will be.
Key Terms:
- Coronal Mass Ejection (CME): Massive burst of solar wind and magnetic fields rising above the solar corona or being released into space.
- Magnetic Field: An invisible force field created by moving electric charges, like those around the Earth and the Sun.
- Interaction: When the Sun’s ejected material reaches Earth, magnetic fields combine and transfer energy into our atmosphere.
NOAA’s Severity Scale for Geomagnetic Storms
Meteorologists need a way to describe how strong these storms are. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) uses a scale that’s simple enough for anyone to follow:
NOAA’s G-Scale for Geomagnetic Storms:
| G-Level | Description |
|---|---|
| G1 | Minor storm |
| G2 | Moderate |
| G3 | Strong |
| G4 | Severe |
| G5 | Extreme |
This time, the forecast is for a G4 (severe) storm. For most of us, “severe” might sound scary, but it actually means you have a better chance of seeing northern lights—not that you should expect widespread blackouts or emergencies. Power companies and satellite operators handle most storm impacts with special protocols.
How Often Do Storms Like This Happen?
During the Sun’s 11-year cycle, about 100 geomagnetic storms of this intensity occur. That’s not an everyday event, but it’s also not a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Most years, strong auroras are limited to northern U.S. states and Canada. During severe events like this, however, people in much more southern states may spot a faint glow on the horizon.
Aurora Visibility by U.S. Region:
- Northern states: Common sight during strong storms. Brilliant and colorful overhead.
- Southern states: Rare. If visible, usually faint and low on the horizon.
- Metropolitan areas: Harder to see due to city lights and air pollution.
What to Expect: Seeing the Northern Lights Across the U.S.
Few sights match the magic of the northern lights. Here’s what you can expect with this “severe” geomagnetic storm and how to improve your odds for a dazzling experience.
How the Aurora May Appear in Your Area
If you live in the northern part of the U.S., you might catch vibrant streaks of green, purple, or red swirling overhead. Those farther south—think Texas, Alabama, or southern California—should look near the northern horizon for a dim glow or flickers of color. For many, especially in the Deep South, catching even a faint aurora is extraordinary.
Don’t expect the dramatic, overhead lights seen in Alaska. The further south you are, the less intense and more horizon-level the lights become. In bright cities, light pollution makes spotting even faint auroras tough.
Tips for Viewing And Photographing the Aurora
You don’t have to be a pro photographer or own fancy gear. Everyone with a smartphone can try capturing the moment. Here’s how to make the most of this rare event:
Find the Right Spot
- Get away from bright city lights—state parks, rural areas, or any dark location is better.
- Use online light pollution maps to find dark-sky spots near you.
Bring Your Phone (and Patience)
Modern smartphones capture more light than the naked eye, sometimes revealing auroras you might otherwise miss.
How To Take Long-Exposure Photos on Most Phones:
- Open your phone’s camera app and go to settings.
- Look for ‘Night mode’ or ‘Pro mode’ options.
- Set exposure time to 10-15 seconds if available.
- Hold the phone steady or use a tripod.
- Take multiple shots in different directions (mainly north).
- Check photos for colors or patterns you can’t see without help.
Some camera apps may require you to manually set the exposure. Explore your settings ahead of time for best results.
Even if you don’t see anything with your eyes, try snapping a photo. You might be surprised by what shows up.
Share Your Experience
If you capture a photo, consider sharing it on Twitter using @WestfallAustin or @LiveNOWFOX. The team loves to feature viewer photos, so your shot could reach a national audience.
The Science Behind the Storm’s Effects Beyond the Aurora
Seeing the aurora is awe-inspiring, but geomagnetic storms also have real effects on our modern world, especially technology.
Effects on Power Infrastructure
When a geomagnetic storm hits, the interaction between the Sun’s and Earth’s magnetic fields causes induced currents in long metal conductors like power lines. Think of it like an unwanted generator at work.
This can push extra electricity into the grid. Too much current can overload equipment or, in rare cases, cause power outages. Thankfully, electric companies monitor these storms closely. They use special procedures for mitigation: adjusting or shutting down vulnerable systems, so most people never notice a thing.
Impact on Satellites and Other Technology
The storm can create problems for satellites in low Earth orbit. Extra radiation and charged particles may interfere with satellite electronics or communications. NOAA keeps constant contact with the power sector, airlines, and satellite operators. This fast communication lets them prepare in time and avoid real issues.
For the general public, the main impact is the chance to see the aurora—not disruptions.
How NOAA Monitors and Predicts Storms
NASA and NOAA use advanced satellites to keep an eye on solar activity. When a CME leaves the Sun, satellites record images and data to predict arrival. The real details, though, aren’t clear until the CME gets much closer.
There’s a key spot—about 1 million miles from Earth—where satellites act like “space buoys.” When the storm passes these sensors, experts get their first real readings of how strong the CME is and how its magnetic field is aligned. Depending on what these satellites report, NOAA can issue real-time warnings.
It’s a bit like hearing a hurricane made landfall in the Florida Keys when you’re up in Mississippi. You know it’s coming, but don’t know what it looks like until it’s almost at your door.
Summary Timeline:
- Sun emits coronal mass ejection (CME)
- CME travels up to 93 million miles to Earth
- NOAA satellite (1 million miles out) detects real-time field data
- Earth potentially lights up with auroras as storm arrives
Personal Experiences and Expert Aurora Tips
Even space weather experts get excited about chances to see the aurora. Rob Steenburgh, Science and Operations Officer at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, shared his recent experience.
Rob Steenburgh’s Aurora Sighting
In May 2024, Rob glimpsed the northern lights from his home in Colorado. The display was subtle, just a soft, faint glow on the horizon. Living in a metro area with lots of lights, he noticed how much light pollution can drown out the magic. If you can, head out to the darkest place you can find for a much better view.
Practical Aurora-Watching Tips
- Stay far from city lights for brightest colors.
- Scan the northern horizon, especially in southern regions.
- Cities like Los Angeles are not ideal.
- Northern states and southern Canada offer the highest chance of vivid displays.
- Remember that viewers in the southern hemisphere see similar auroras—called aurora australis—but this event is focused on the north.
If you don’t see anything at first, don’t give up. The display might come and go throughout the night.
How to Stay Informed and Share Your Aurora Photos
With unpredictable events like a severe geomagnetic storm, staying updated and sharing the excitement matters.
Where to Find Updates as the Storm Unfolds
NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center provides up-to-the-minute alerts, storm watches, and forecasts. It’s wise to check their resources in the hours leading up to and during the storm event, as conditions can change quickly.
Connect With the Community
Ready to share what you see? Send your aurora photos to the team at LiveNOW from FOX by tagging @WestfallAustin or @LiveNOWFOX on Twitter. You might see your photo featured on air or online. For live coverage and updates, visit the LiveNOW from FOX website and follow LiveNOWFOX on Twitter.
Building a digital gallery of viewer submissions helps everyone enjoy the event—no matter where you live.
Conclusion
This “severe” geomagnetic storm could bring a rare visual treat to millions of Americans. Whether you catch a brilliant overhead light show or a subtle glow on the horizon, take a few moments to step outside and look up. Even in today’s world of screens and deadlines, there’s something special about watching Earth’s skies come alive with color.
Grab your phone, head for the darkest spot you can find, and join the shared experience. With the right timing and a little luck, you may see one of nature’s most beautiful displays—no flight to the Arctic necessary.
Stay safe, stay curious, and don’t forget to share your photos with the world. The northern lights aren’t just for those who live at the top of the map. This week, they just might stop by your backyard.
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