Rare G4 Geomagnetic Storm Could Bring Aurora Borealis Deep Into the U.S.
A rare and powerful Aurora Borealis geomagnetic storm is lighting up both the sky and the excitement of skywatchers across the United States tonight, June 1. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a G4 (severe) geomagnetic storm watch — one of the highest levels on the geomagnetic scale — due to a series of potent solar eruptions.
This celestial spectacle is the result of at least five coronal mass ejections (CMEs) ejected from a highly active sunspot region, AR3664, between May 29 and May 31. These immense solar eruptions have the potential to disturb Earth’s magnetic field, causing stunning visual displays of Aurora Borealis, more commonly known as the northern lights.
Denali National Park, Alaska [U.S. National Park Service]
What Is a G4 Geomagnetic Storm?
A geomagnetic storm occurs when solar wind — often from CMEs — interacts with Earth’s magnetic field. These charged particles release energy upon collision with atmospheric gases, producing the beautiful colours we see as auroras. The G4 geomagnetic storm category signals a severe disturbance, capable of disrupting satellite communications, GPS signals, and even power grids.
The current storm is especially unique due to its strength and complexity. It is a composite storm made up of materials from several CMEs, travelling at extraordinary speeds — up to 1,938 km/s (4.3 million mph). This means the impacts may last longer than a single event, and the Aurora Borealis geomagnetic storm could continue to impress through June 2 and even into June 3.
The Aurora forecast given by NOAA [Space Weather Prediction Center, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration]
Where and When to See the Northern Lights Tonight
The aurora forecast tonight is highly promising. NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center suggests that states like Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, and North Dakota are likely to experience overhead northern lights tonight. If you’re in more southern regions like Illinois, New York, or Oregon, don’t rule out a glimpse either — especially if the storm intensifies further.
According to Dr. Tamitha Skov, a space weather physicist, “We just entered what looks to be the ‘core’ of the first structure. Since this storm is made up of material from multiple CMEs, there’s a chance we could experience more than one wave of geomagnetic activity.”
This means the Aurora Borealis tonight could extend far into mid-latitude regions — a rare and spectacular opportunity for those in parts of the U.S. that don’t normally witness the northern lights.
My Sunday vibes is hoping we don’t have a lot of cloud cover and I can see the northern lights tonight even though we are in the part of the country that needs a Phone to see it
Are you in The Good viewing range do you plan to try and see the lights?
This is a huge G4 solar… pic.twitter.com/MYV7PwjeIR
— USMC Lady Vet 🇺🇸 (@Arkypatriot) June 1, 2025
What Is Causing the Aurora Borealis Geomagnetic Storm?
The sunspot region AR3664 has been unusually active, launching multiple CMEs into space. When these CMEs reach Earth, their charged particles (ions) collide with molecules like oxygen and nitrogen in Earth’s atmosphere. These collisions excite the atmospheric particles, releasing energy in the form of light. This is how the Aurora Borealis forms.
The ongoing solar storm has created perfect conditions for a massive Aurora Borealis geomagnetic storm, with auroras stretching much farther south than normal. NOAA has stated that more solar material could continue to impact Earth through June 2 and June 3, sustaining elevated geomagnetic activity.
Aurora borealis over the Forty Foot, Sandycove in October 2024. pic.twitter.com/vPW5ZDAB4V
— Sryan Bruen Photography (@sryanbruenphoto) June 1, 2025
Aurora Forecast: What to Expect in the Coming Days
The northern lights forecast remains strong for the next 24–48 hours. While the current G4 solar storm is the most intense, another, smaller CME is expected to arrive around late June 2, potentially generating a G1 to G2-level geomagnetic storm.
Although weaker than a G4 event, a G2 storm could still deliver auroras as far south as Idaho and New York, especially during night-time hours. The aurora forecast for June 3 is still evolving, but skywatchers are advised to stay alert for updates from NOAA and space weather experts.
For the best chance of witnessing the northern lights Sunday night, head away from city lights, give your eyes time to adjust to darkness, and keep checking real-time aurora tracking websites and apps.
How to Prepare for Northern Lights Viewing
If you’re hoping to see the Aurora Borealis tonight, here are a few tips:
- Check local aurora forecasts regularly to monitor the strength and visibility in your area.
- Head north and go rural — light pollution can greatly reduce your chances of spotting auroras.
- Look up between 10 PM and 2 AM, local time, when geomagnetic activity usually peaks.
- Bring a camera with long-exposure settings for the best photos of the Aurora Borealis geomagnetic storm.
Apps like Aurora Forecast and websites like NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center provide live updates and alerts based on your location.
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Why This Storm Is Special
This event marks one of the most significant space weather events in recent years. The combination of multiple CMEs and high solar wind speeds has made this an unusually strong and prolonged Aurora Borealis geomagnetic storm. Not only does it present a rare viewing opportunity, but it also underscores the importance of monitoring space weather — particularly as we approach the peak of Solar Cycle 25, expected in 2025.
This weekend’s geomagnetic activity may also offer scientists valuable data on how multiple CMEs interact with Earth’s magnetic field and how future solar storms may impact technology, power systems, and even aviation routes.
Conclusion
If you’re anywhere near the northern half of the U.S. tonight, step outside and look up. A G4 geomagnetic storm of this scale is uncommon — and it may gift you with one of nature’s most awe-inspiring shows. With the aurora forecast tonight looking exceptionally strong, even those farther south than usual may catch a glimpse of the shimmering northern lights.
Stay tuned to official alerts, and prepare to witness a once-in-a-decade celestial event brought on by the powerful and mesmerizing Aurora Borealis geomagnetic storm.
