A fast-moving explosion from the Sun, known as a coronal mass ejection (CME), has triggered warnings from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC). On March 22, 2025, NOAA issued a G3 (strong) geomagnetic storm watch, along with ongoing warnings for current conditions. This CME, initially detected in the early morning hours by the GOES-16 satellite, is expected to reach Earth early on March 23, creating potential impacts on a broad scale.
The SWPC stated, "A fast, but faint, partial halo CME associated with dimming observed in GOES-16 195 Angstroms in the vicinity of Region 4034 (S11W23, Axx/alpha) was first observed in LASCO C2 coronagraph imagery… Modeling of this event determined an arrival at Earth by early March 23." This forecast could mean that the auroras might be visible across much of the United States, stretching from Idaho to New York, depending on local weather conditions.
Geomagnetic storms are classified on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being minor and 5 being extreme. During a G3 storm, natural phenomena like the northern lights, or auroras, become visible at much lower latitudes than usual. This is likely to capture the attention not only of avid astronomers but also anyone with an interest in witnessing this spectacular light display.
As geomagnetic storms can have significant impacts, they may disrupt electronics and communication systems. Satellite operations may experience minor disruptions as a result, including intermittent GPS difficulties. The SWPC emphasizes that while the auroras are beautiful, the storms also raise concerns for infrastructure and technology.
In the past, geomagnetic storms have had severe consequences. Notably, the Carrington Event in 1859, regarded as the largest geomagnetic storm on record, generated stunning auroras as far south as Hawaii. Besides dazzling spectators at night, the event caused extensive damage to telegraphic systems, with operators reporting electric shocks due to surges in the electrical system. A 2013 report by Lloyd's of London suggested that if the Carrington event were to occur today, it could generate damages exceeding $2.6 trillion in the U.S.—about 15% of the nation's annual GDP.
As of March 22, at 11 PM, no geomagnetic storm impacts had been officially recorded yet, but forecasters anticipated that conditions would peak overnight. The prime viewing opportunities for the auroras were set for late evening hours after 10 PM, extending until 2 AM when the sky is darkest. NOAA advised viewers in clear-sky areas to watch the northern horizon for any potential light displays.
While many areas were anticipated to be viewing spots for the lights, experts suggested that locations with minimal light pollution—such as rural parks or coastlines—would yield the best experiences. The SWPC stated, "Conditions look to peak around 11 PM this evening." In Western New York, for example, people were hopeful about witnessing the spectacle on the horizon.
As the auroras depend largely on the intrinsic beauty of the celestial dynamics, NOAA kept a close watch on solar activity that could influence visibility. Solar max activity peaks lead to more frequent opportunities for observing the lights, spurring interest among astronomy enthusiasts. Scientists at the SWPC pointed out that the sun is currently at solar maximum, leading to increased solar activity.
People across the northeastern states, including places such as Massachusetts, have already been forewarned of opportunities to witness the northern lights as recent weather conditions became conducive for the phenomena. The SWPC prediction map illustrated potential visibility spanning northern, central, and western regions of the state.
As more space weather data emerges, excitement continues to build for potential aurora sightings, but so does awareness about the possible adverse effects of geomagnetic storms on our technology and power systems. Thus, while people are ready to look up and dream under a dazzling sky, experts stress understanding both the enchanting and threatening aspects of space weather.
In conclusion, the auroras offer a captivating natural light display, yet the accompanying geomagnetic storm and its unpredictable consequences demand attention. Keeping watch to balance admiration for this spectacle with an awareness of its environmental impact remains essential. Astro-enthusiasts and the general public alike braced for what was anticipated to be an extraordinary night.
