Northern lights forecast to brighten skies across northern U.S., Canada

The aurora could be visible across Canada and much of the northern tier of U.S. states—and possibly farther south—Monday night following a major disturbance in Earth’s magnetic field, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center. Shawn Dahl, service coordinator at the center, said the intensity of the current geomagnetic and solar radiation storm has not been seen in more than two decades.

Geomagnetic storms of this magnitude can disrupt satellite operations, GPS communications and other critical infrastructure, though officials said astronauts at the International Space Station currently face no risk. The forecast offers residents across much of North America a rare opportunity to observe the phenomenon.

Visibility and Forecast Details

The Space Weather Prediction Center issued the aurora forecast as intense geomagnetic and solar radiation storms swept across the planet. The aurora could be visible across Canada and the northern tier of U.S. states, with residents of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Maine and Alaska positioned to observe the display most clearly. Sky watchers in lower-latitude states including Colorado and Kansas should monitor forecasts, as the aurora could extend farther south than usual.

Infrastructure and Safety Concerns

Geomagnetic storms can interfere with satellite operations and GPS communications that critical infrastructure systems depend on. Solar radiation storms can also disrupt certain types of communications systems. Despite the magnitude of the current storm, Dahl said astronauts aboard the International Space Station face no elevated risk.

Historical Precedent

A comparable geomagnetic event in November delivered visible auroras across a much wider geographic area than typical. That event brought the northern lights to Hungary and the United Kingdom in Europe, while the aurora extended as far south as Kansas, Colorado and Texas across the United States.

Duration and Viewing Opportunity

Dahl said the current storm is not expected to become much weaker until sometime Tuesday. The intensity represents a notable event by scientific standards, with no comparable storm recorded in the past two decades. Residents of northern regions who experience clear skies Monday night will have a rare opportunity to view the display with minimal light pollution in rural areas.