A powerful burst of solar energy, known as a coronal mass ejection (CME), is expected to reach Earth late Monday, potentially triggering widespread aurora sightings and causing disruptions to power grids, satellites, and communications across the northern United States.
The NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center in Boulder reported that the CME erupted from the sun on Saturday and is traveling at over 2 million miles per hour. This Earth-directed CME is expected to spark moderate to strong geomagnetic storms, with G2 to G3 levels likely between Monday afternoon and Tuesday.
The best opportunity to witness the northern lights will be in the northern tier of the U.S., including areas like Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan, provided skies remain clear. Depending on the strength of the storm, the auroras could extend farther south. However, NOAA warns that the storm may also affect satellite operations, GPS accuracy, and high-frequency radio communications.
Utility companies are on alert for potential power fluctuations, and experts caution that if the CME’s magnetic field aligns in a way that escalates conditions to G4 storm levels, the effects could be more severe.
As the storm approaches, NOAA will continue to provide updates, with watches in effect through Tuesday. Residents in affected regions should stay informed and be prepared for possible disruptions.
