Northern Lights May Be Visible Across 22 U.S. States Tonight
Auroras are expected to illuminate skies from Alaska to Illinois as geomagnetic storm conditions persist into the night. This surge in activity follows a powerful M7.4 solar flare that launched a coronal mass ejection (CME) from the Sun toward Earth.
Strong Geomagnetic Storm Expected
The fast-moving CME is predicted to reach Earth late tonight or early Friday morning (Nov. 7, UTC). According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, it could trigger strong G3-level geomagnetic storms, enhancing both northern and southern auroras.
Recent Auroral Activity
Earlier this week, a glancing CME impact combined with the effects of a high-speed solar wind stream, driving geomagnetic activity to G3 levels. This event sparked widespread auroras across northern parts of the United States, Canada, and sections of Europe.
Forecast and Expert Outlook
The U.K. Met Office and NOAA continue to maintain G3 storm watches through Nov. 7. If the incoming CME connects favorably with Earth’s magnetic field, auroras could intensify and extend into mid-latitude regions.
Space weather physicist Tamitha Skov called the outlook “an aurora photographer’s dream starting now and lasting at least through the weekend,” noting that G3 to G4 storm levels are possible as several CMEs interact with Earth’s magnetosphere.
Summary
The approaching CME could deliver another vivid auroral display across much of North America, making tonight ideal for skywatchers and photographers alike.
Author’s summary: Skywatchers across 22 U.S. states may witness rare, vivid northern lights tonight, driven by a potent CME expected to trigger strong geomagnetic storms.