Alaska: A powerful disturbance in Earth’s magnetic field could allow the aurora borealis to be seen much farther south than usual, potentially lighting up skies across Canada, the northern United States, and even parts of the southern US, according to forecasts.
The outlook from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center comes along with heightened geomagnetic activity and intense solar radiation storms. Shawn Dahl, Service Coordinator at the centre, said that the ongoing conditions are strong enough to significantly expand the usual visibility range of the northern lights.
While the storms may create striking visual displays, they also pose risks to modern infrastructure. The US Geological Survey warned that such geomagnetic activity can disrupt satellite operations, GPS signals, and other communication systems.
G4-level storm
Dahl noted that the strength of the G4-level storm is exceptional and has not been recorded at this level for more than 20 years. The disturbance is expected to persist, with little weakening anticipated until sometime on January 20.
Similar solar activity in November produced vivid auroral displays across parts of Europe, including Hungary and the United Kingdom, and in the United States as far south as Kansas, Colorado, and Texas.
Dahl explained that while G4-level storm activity can impact spacecraft and some communication systems, astronauts aboard the International Space Station are not currently in danger. The Service Coordinator added that the strength of the ongoing storm is extraordinary.
If skies remain clear, observers are advised to watch for the aurora as soon as night falls. Although official forecasts continue to indicate the strongest G4-level storm activity between 1 am and 4 am EST (0600–0900 GMT) on January 20, severe geomagnetic conditions have been recorded well ahead of schedule.
As a result, auroras may become visible earlier than anticipated, making it worthwhile to monitor the skies throughout the evening.
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