Northern Lights Visible Across 22 US States Tonight
Auroras may be seen from Alaska to Illinois as geomagnetic storm conditions are expected to persist tonight. Earth is preparing for the impact of a powerful coronal mass ejection (CME) that was launched from the sun during a strong M7.4 solar flare yesterday.
Incoming Solar Event
The fast-moving CME is predicted to reach Earth late tonight or early Friday morning (Nov. 7, UTC). This event could produce strong (G3) geomagnetic storm conditions, according to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.
Recent Auroral Activity
Last night’s sudden auroral display occurred when a glancing CME arrival combined with the lingering influence of a high-speed solar wind stream. This pushed geomagnetic activity to G3 levels, sparking auroras across the northern U.S., Canada, and Europe.
Current Storm Watches
- The Met Office and NOAA both have G3 storm watches active for November.
- If the CME arrives as predicted and the magnetic orientation connects well with Earth’s magnetic field, auroras could intensify across high and possibly mid-latitude regions.
Space weather physicist Tamitha Skov said, "An aurora photographer's dream starting now and lasting at least through the weekend," noting G3 to G4 storm levels could occur by Friday as multiple CMEs interact with Earth's magnetic field.
Summary
The northern and southern lights may brighten significantly across many regions tonight due to expected geomagnetic storms driven by solar CME impacts.
Author’s summary: A strong solar eruption will likely enhance aurora visibility over many US states tonight, offering a rare and vivid display for observers and photographers.