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17h ago

Geomagnetic Storms To Expand Aurora Visibility Across Northern U.S. This Weekend

The surge is tied to a Dec. 31 coronal mass ejection with Kp near 6 expected.

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Forecasters warn that auroras are unpredictable. Conditions could strengthen and push the lights farther south.
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Overview

  • NOAA projects G1–G2 geomagnetic storm conditions on Jan. 3 with a likely ease to quiet to G1 levels on Jan. 4.
  • Auroras are most likely from Alaska and northern Canada into Washington, Idaho, Montana, the Dakotas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan and Maine, with low‑horizon chances in parts of Oregon, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Vermont and New Hampshire.
  • The UK Met Office says sightings are possible across the UK through Jan. 4, with a CME arrival expected late Jan. 2 or early Jan. 3 (UTC).
  • Viewing will depend on local cloud cover, light pollution and the bright Jan. 3 full moon, with the best window typically 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. local time from dark, north‑facing locations.
  • Forecasters stress uncertainty in timing and strength, urging use of NOAA’s 30‑minute aurora forecasts and live solar‑wind data apps for real‑time updates.