Northern Lights Visible Across Wide Swath of U.S. During Geomagnetic Storm

A strong geomagnetic storm is causing the aurora borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights, to be visible across an unusually wide area of the United States, stretching as far south as Tennessee and Kentucky.

The phenomenon began yesterday, November 12, and is expected to continue tonight, November 13. Reports of sightings have come in from states including Texas, where the lights were visible near Austin, and across the Southeast. The NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a G4 (Severe) Watch, indicating a significant geomagnetic disturbance. This level of activity can potentially impact power grids and satellite operations, though widespread disruptions are not currently anticipated.

The aurora is caused by disturbances in the Earth’s magnetosphere triggered by solar flares and coronal mass ejections from the sun. According to space weather experts, this particular event is the result of a series of recent solar eruptions. The visibility of the Northern Lights at lower latitudes is rare and occurs during particularly intense geomagnetic storms. For those hoping to view the lights, clear skies and a dark location away from city lights are optimal. You can learn more about the science behind the aurora here.

Officials at NOAA are continuing to monitor the situation and will provide updates as the geomagnetic storm progresses. They advise that further displays are possible in the coming days, depending on continued solar activity.