Overview

• NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a moderate (G2) geomagnetic storm watch beginning around 11 p.m. ET on Aug. 7 and a minor (G1) watch for Aug. 9.
• Charged particles from an Aug. 5 M-class solar flare and accompanying high-speed streams are expected to drive storms with a Kp index up to 6 and a slight chance of reaching G3 levels.
• Skywatchers in 18 states from South Dakota and Iowa northward may see the northern lights between 11 p.m. ET and 5 a.m. ET if skies are clear.
• Forecasters warn the storm could cause manageable disruptions to satellites, radio communications, and power grids.
• Heightened solar activity following last year’s solar maximum is projected to sustain auroral displays into early 2026.