Northern Lights Forecast Expands Viewing Area Across US

Powerful solar storm triggers rare geomagnetic activity, offering more people a chance to see the aurora borealis.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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A significant geomagnetic storm triggered by recent solar activity is currently impacting Earth, raising the possibility of spectacular aurora displays - commonly known as the Northern Lights - across a wider swath of the United States than typically observed. The event could make the aurora borealis visible as far south as Illinois and Oregon, offering a rare opportunity for millions to witness this natural phenomenon.

Why it matters

Understanding the science behind these displays and knowing where to look are key to maximizing the chances of seeing the lights. While the aurora provides a stunning visual display, powerful geomagnetic storms can also have disruptive effects on technology, including power grids, communication systems, and air travel.

The details

The current display is a result of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) - eruptions of solar energy - impacting Earth's magnetic field. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), this represents a powerful geomagnetic storm, prompting a 'severe' geomagnetic storm watch for Tuesday, November 12th and Wednesday, November 13th, 2025. The aurora borealis and its southern counterpart the aurora australis are created when charged particles from the sun collide with atoms and molecules in Earth's atmosphere, releasing energy in the form of light.

  • The current geomagnetic activity is expected to continue throughout 2025 and beyond.
  • NOAA has issued a 'severe' geomagnetic storm watch for Tuesday, November 12th and Wednesday, November 13th, 2025.

The players

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

A scientific agency within the United States Department of Commerce that focuses on the conditions of the oceans, major waterways, and the atmosphere.

Space Weather Prediction Center

A division of NOAA that monitors and forecasts space weather conditions, including solar activity and its potential impacts on Earth.

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What’s next

The Space Weather Prediction Center is actively tracking the situation and providing updated forecasts. Continued monitoring of space weather conditions by NOAA and other agencies will be crucial for both appreciating the beauty of the aurora and mitigating potential risks to our technological infrastructure.

The takeaway

This geomagnetic storm presents a unique opportunity for more people across the United States to witness the stunning natural display of the Northern Lights, but also highlights the potential disruptive effects of powerful solar activity on our modern technological systems.