A powerful series of solar eruptions is expected to trigger widespread northern lights activity across large parts of the United States this week, with federal forecasters warning that strong to severe geomagnetic storms could impact Earth through Friday night.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center (NOAA SWPC) has upgraded its forecast, saying multiple coronal mass ejections — massive bursts of solar plasma and magnetic fields released by the sun — are on track to collide with Earth’s magnetic field beginning Thursday evening and continuing into Friday.

The heightened solar activity could produce vivid aurora displays visible far beyond the usual Arctic regions, potentially reaching portions of the Midwest, Northeast, and northern Plains.

NOAA Raises Geomagnetic Storm Forecast

Earlier projections suggested the most intense aurora activity would arrive Friday. However, NOAA’s latest update now indicates that G2 (Moderate) and G3 (Strong) geomagnetic storm conditions are likely to develop Thursday afternoon and evening across North America.

Forecasters also warned that isolated G4 (Severe) storm conditions could occur during the peak of the event overnight.

In its latest forecast discussion, NOAA stated that geomagnetic field conditions are expected to “escalate rapidly from quiet to active,” reaching strong storm levels from June 4 into June 5 as the multiple coronal mass ejections arrive in succession.

The agency added that there remains “a chance for isolated periods of G4 (Severe) geomagnetic storming” during the height of the solar storm activity.

What Are Coronal Mass Ejections?

Coronal mass ejections, commonly known as CMEs, are enormous clouds of superheated gas and magnetic energy expelled from the sun, often following solar flares.

When directed toward Earth, these solar eruptions can disturb the planet’s magnetic field, creating geomagnetic storms that power colorful auroras — commonly called the northern lights.

In stronger events, geomagnetic storms can also interfere with satellite communications, GPS systems, radio transmissions, and electrical infrastructure.

Northern Lights Could Be Visible Across Parts of the U.S.

If weather conditions cooperate, skywatchers across northern U.S. states could have an opportunity to see the aurora borealis Thursday night and into Friday morning.

Experts recommend heading outdoors shortly after dark and looking toward the northern horizon in areas with minimal light pollution.

States with the best viewing potential include those along the Canadian border and parts of the Upper Midwest, Pacific Northwest, and Northeast. Depending on storm intensity, auroras could briefly become visible farther south than usual.

Moonlight May Affect Visibility

An 82%-illuminated waning gibbous moon is expected to rise after midnight in the eastern sky, which could wash out some of the fainter aurora colors and structures.

Still, stronger geomagnetic storms can produce bright, fast-moving auroras visible even under partially moonlit skies.

Tips for Viewing and Photographing the Aurora

Auroras are often easier to capture with a smartphone camera than to see clearly with the naked eye. Night mode settings and long-exposure photography can help reveal vibrant colors and movement in the sky.

Clear skies away from city lights will offer the best chance for viewing.

Space weather experts note that aurora forecasts can change quickly depending on solar wind conditions and the precise timing of CME impacts.

Solar Activity Remains Elevated

The current surge in solar activity comes as the sun approaches the peak phase of its roughly 11-year solar cycle, known as Solar Cycle 25.

Scientists have observed increasing numbers of sunspots, solar flares, and geomagnetic storms over the past year, leading to more frequent and widespread aurora displays across North America.

The latest forecast upgrade suggests this week’s event could become one of the stronger geomagnetic disturbances of the year if severe storm conditions develop.

Conclusion

With multiple solar eruptions set to strike Earth’s magnetic field, NOAA is warning that strong to severe geomagnetic storms could create widespread northern lights displays across much of the northern United States through Friday. For skywatchers with clear skies, the event may provide a rare opportunity to witness one of nature’s most dramatic nighttime spectacles.