Northern lights may be visible in 22 US states tonight

Northern Lights Visible Across 22 US States Tonight

Auroras may be seen from Alaska to Illinois as geomagnetic storm conditions are expected to continue tonight. Both northern and southern lights could intensify due to a powerful coronal mass ejection (CME) launched from the sun during yesterday's M7.4 solar flare.

Arrival and Impact of the CME

The fast-moving CME is predicted to reach Earth late tonight or early Friday morning (Nov. 7, UTC). It might trigger strong (G3) geomagnetic storm conditions, according to NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center.

Recent Auroral Activity

Overnight, a surprise wave of auroras occurred when a glancing CME combined with the lasting effects of a high-speed solar wind stream. This elevated geomagnetic activity to G3 levels, causing auroras to appear across the northern U.S., Canada, and Europe.

Official Storm Watches

The Met Office has issued G3 storm watches for November. If the incoming CME arrives as forecast and its magnetic orientation aligns well with Earth's magnetic field, auroras could brighten significantly in high and possibly mid-latitude regions.

Space weather physicist Tamitha Skov described the forecast as "an aurora photographer's dream starting now and lasting at least through the weekend," adding that G3 to G4 storm levels are possible by Friday as multiple CMEs interact with Earth's magnetic field.

Author's summary: A strong solar event may produce spectacular auroras across a wide area of the US and beyond, offering excellent viewing opportunities through the weekend.

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Space Space — 2025-11-06

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