A rare geomagnetic storm is expected to bring a spectacular display of the northern lights to parts of the United States this weekend, making it visible for sky enthusiasts in states that rarely witness the phenomenon.
The storm, triggered by a solar wind disturbance, will cause the aurora oval to shift southwards, potentially bringing the spectacle to areas as far south as Wyoming and New York. The 18 U.S. states most likely to catch the show include Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, South Dakota, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Idaho, Washington, Oregon, New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Wyoming.
Geomagnetic storms occur when solar winds disrupt Earth’s magnetic field, creating a storm that can push the aurora oval further south. The G2 storm currently affecting the planet has enough force to make this possible, providing a rare opportunity for skywatchers in northern regions to view the northern lights.
However, viewing conditions also depend on other factors such as cloud cover, light pollution, and shorter nights due to the approaching summer solstice. To maximize chances of witnessing the spectacle, it’s essential to head to dark, north-facing locations away from city lights and catch the display between 1-2 a.m.
For those eager to track space weather and get the latest updates on aurora sightings, several apps are available. The National Weather Service provides real-time forecasts and allows users to check the likelihood of auroras based on their location.
Source: https://dailygalaxy.com/2025/06/northern-lights-18-u-s-states-this-weekend