(washington, January 19, 2026) – A severe geomagnetic storm watch has been issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as the aurora borealis, or northern lights, is expected to be visible across a wider area than usual, potentially reaching as far south as North Carolina, according to multiple reports.
A geomagnetic storm is expected to bring the aurora borealis to unusually low latitudes tonight, offering a rare viewing opportunity for millions.
- NOAA has issued a G4 (Severe) Geomagnetic Storm Watch for January 20.
- The aurora borealis might potentially be visible across much of the U.S., including states as far south as North Carolina.
- The storm is caused by increased solar activity, which has released coronal mass ejections toward earth.
What to Expect
The NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center issued the severe geomagnetic storm watch, stating that the event is occurring due to the arrival of a coronal mass ejection (CME) from the sun, according to a post on their website. A CME is a significant release of plasma and magnetic field from the solar corona.
The Washington Post reports that the northern lights may be visible as far south as Alabama and Northern California. The New York Times notes that the aurora could be visible across much of the U.S. tonight.
In Massachusetts, a rare display of the northern lights is anticipated Monday night, according to masslive. WRAL reports that residents of North Carolina are encouraged to “engage night mode” as the aurora might potentially be visible there as well.
Did you know?-The aurora borealis and aurora australis (southern lights) occur concurrently. Increased solar activity impacts both poles, creating stunning displays in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
Why It Matters
Geomagnetic storms of this magnitude are relatively rare.The NOAA notes that G4 storms can cause fluctuations in power grids and impact satellite operations. Though, the primary impact for most observers will be the opportunity to witness a impressive natural light show. This event is particularly noteworthy as of how far south the aurora is expected to be visible,offering a viewing opportunity for millions who typically do not experience this phenomenon.
“Geomagnetic storms can have a range of impacts, from stunning auroral displays to disruptions in technological systems,” NOAA states on its website.
The strength of the storm and the clarity of the night sky will be key factors in determining how visible the aurora will be in different locations. Observers are advised to find a dark location away from city lights for the best viewing experience.
Pro tip-Check the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center website for real-time updates and aurora forecasts. They provide maps showing the potential visibility of the aurora based on current conditions.
Why did this happen? Increased solar activity, specifically a series of coronal mass ejections (CMEs), triggered the geomagnetic storm. these CMEs are large expulsions of plasma and magnetic field from the sun. Who is affected? Millions across the U.S., potentially as far south as North Carolina, Alabama, and Northern California, could witness the aurora. The storm also has the potential to impact power grids and satellite operations. What is the aurora? The aurora borealis (northern lights) and aurora australis (southern lights) are natural light displays in the sky, predominantly seen in the high-latitude regions (around the Arctic and Antarctic). How did it end? The storm is expected to subside as the CME passes Earth, wiht conditions returning to normal within 24-48 hours, according to NOAA.
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