On the night of Tuesday, July 23, skygazers across Canada and parts of the northern U.S. can keep their eyes peeled for a stunning display in the sky—the mesmerizing Northern Lights. This phenomenon, also known as the aurora borealis, is expected to be intensified by a recent solar storm, making its appearance across a broad swathe of the North American continent.
Space weather experts are buzzing with excitement following a series of solar eruptions known as coronal mass ejections (CMEs) that have swept from the sun and are headed directly toward Earth. The wave of charged particles from these ejections is anticipated to trigger what’s been classified as a G2 geomagnetic storm. This particular classification suggests these solar storms could produce vivid displays of the auroras, previously confined mainly to regions closer to the poles.
The crucial hours to watch for aurora activity are between approximately 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. EDT or 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. PDT. Forecasters from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center have indicated that due to the alignment of magnetic particles, the most brilliant displays are likely to be visible from areas such as Washington State to New York, and up into Canadian provinces.
The April night sky isn't without its own charm. Under the right conditions, towns and cities far from the Arctic Circle—places usually out of reach of the elusive auroras—may glimpse this enchanting light show. According to the forecasts, areas in Ontario may even experience a peek at Northern Lights for the first time in years.
But how can one increase their chances of witnessing such a rare spectacle? For the best view, it’s essential to climb as high as possible, steering clear of city lights and pollution. Enthusiasts should also keep an eye on local weather conditions, as clear skies will provide better visibility. Julie Anderson, a nature photographer who recently camped out in the wilderness of Northern Ontario during an aurora display last summer, described her experience: "Watching the lights dance across the sky while sitting by a warm campfire is something I wouldn’t trade for anything. It feels like magic, pure essence of nature!"
This year marks the peak phase of Solar Cycle 25, a period of increased solar activity that is set to last until 2026. The sun undergoes these cycles approximately every 11 years, alternating between periods of maximum activity, when sunspots and solar storms are most common, and minimum activity. With heightened solar activity, scientists expect more frequent geomagnetic storms, which could facilitate even more sightings of the Northern Lights in the coming months.
As a result of this increased solar activity, summer nights may transform into stunning displays of color as sunlight interacts with the Earth’s magnetic field. As this natural spectacle unfolds, scientists emphasize that while the auroras may dazzle viewers, geomagnetic storms can also create disruptions—especially for satellite communications and GPS services. Such storms have the potential to affect power grids, leading to outages in extreme cases. Hence, awareness is essential during these activities.
The NOAA closely monitors solar activity and updates a comprehensive aurora dashboard, helping skywatchers know when and where they might catch a glimpse of this breathtaking display. Users can view maps and short-term forecasts to plan their aurora hunting expeditions effectively.
Despite the surge in solar activity and the forecasted visibility of the Northern Lights, experiencing this natural light show is often unpredictable. Locations across northern states such as Minnesota, Montana, Idaho, and Washington stand to witness the bright waves of color ranging from greens to vibrant reds and pinks that characterize the auroras. However, clear weather is imperative for maximizing the experience. Last summer, an unexpected burst of solar activity led to unusual sightings of the auroras as far south as New York.
For those interested in photography, modern smartphones are surprisingly effective in capturing the auroras, even when they may not be easily visible to the naked eye. Setting the phone to night mode allows for longer exposure times, which can beautifully translate the nocturnal hues of the aurora into vivid images.
While the predicted geomagnetic storm on July 23 is grabbing headlines, enthusiasts should also tune into the potential for further solar activity due to a second CME observed shortly after the first. Although this subsequent storm isn't expected to have a direct hit on Earth, it still represents an opportunity for another auroral event, creating a sense of anticipation among naturalists, scientists, and adventurers alike.
In essence, whether you’re an experienced aurora watcher or someone new to the wonder of the Northern Lights, the upcoming days present an exceptional opportunity to bear witness to a celestial event where science and beauty collide in astonishing ways. As Scott Sutherland, a meteorologist, articulately shared, “When the night sky comes alive with color, it’s a reminder of how interconnected everything is- from the sun to our own planet.” So, look to the skies on Tuesday night and relish in the beauty of the Northern Lights, as they become a fleeting gift from the cosmos, lighting up the darkened night.
