Moderate Geomagnetic Storm Forecast for Tonight

Northern Lights Could Be Visible Across Northern U.S. States

Mar. 18, 2026 at 11:54pm

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A moderate geomagnetic storm is expected to hit the Earth on Wednesday night, potentially bringing northern lights displays to U.S. states further south than usual, according to forecasts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center.

Why it matters

Geomagnetic storms can impact power systems, spacecraft operations, and high-frequency radio communications. They may also affect migratory animals like birds and marine mammals. This storm comes during the 'aurora season' around the spring equinox, when geomagnetic activity tends to increase.

The details

The storm is being caused by a coronal mass ejection, a massive eruption of solar material and magnetic field from the sun's outer atmosphere. When the charged particles from the sun clash with atoms and molecules in Earth's upper atmosphere, it can cause them to emit a glow that appears as the northern lights. NOAA has issued a storm watch for a G2-level geomagnetic storm, which can lead to fluctuations in power grids and minor impacts on satellite operations.

  • The storm is expected to begin on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at 8 p.m. ET and continue until Thursday, March 19, 2026 at 8 p.m. ET.
  • The best time to view the northern lights is generally between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. local time.

The players

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

The U.S. government agency that monitors and predicts weather, climate, oceans, and coasts.

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO)

A NASA spacecraft that continuously observes the sun and provides data on solar activity.

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What’s next

The NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center will continue to monitor the storm and provide updates on its potential impacts.

The takeaway

This geomagnetic storm is a reminder of the powerful forces at play in our solar system and the need to understand and prepare for the effects of space weather on our technology and environment. Stargazers in the northern U.S. may be treated to a stunning natural light show if the conditions are right.