Severe G5 Geomagnetic Storm Could Light Up U.S. Skies Tonight With Rare Northern Lights Display

UNITED STATES – A rare and powerful G4 to G5 geomagnetic storm is expected to light up skies across much of the United States tonight, with the potential for northern lights visibility reaching as far south as Illinois, Texas, and Florida. Meteorologists and space weather experts say the event could rival the historic May 2024 aurora display, when millions across North America witnessed vivid colors dancing overhead.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and NASA, multiple solar flares have erupted from the Sun in recent days, sending coronal mass ejections (CMEs) hurtling toward Earth at speeds exceeding 1,000 miles per second. The strongest of these, classified as an X5-class flare, is expected to strike by midday or early afternoon, triggering an intense geomagnetic reaction that could continue through tonight and into early Friday.

Northern Lights Could Be Seen Nationwide

Experts warn that this storm could be among the most powerful of the year, falling under the G5 (Extreme) classification — the highest on NOAA’s geomagnetic storm scale. If conditions align, the resulting aurora borealis could be visible far beyond its usual polar range.

The aurora visibility forecast includes:

• Visible overhead: Northern and central U.S. states such as Montana, the Dakotas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Maine.
• Visible on the horizon: As far south as Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, North Carolina, Tennessee, and northern Texas.

Last night’s storm already produced spectacular auroras visible from Georgia, Texas, and even parts of Mexico, and experts say tonight’s display could be even stronger if clear skies hold.

Best Viewing Tips for Tonight

Forecasters emphasize that the best viewing conditions will be shortly after sunset through midnight, depending on local cloud cover. To catch the aurora, residents should:

• Head away from city lights and urban glow.
• Look north toward the horizon.
• Allow eyes to adjust for at least 15 minutes in the dark.
• Keep checking — auroras can appear suddenly and intensify in waves.

“Tonight could be unforgettable,” experts noted in a NASA update, advising viewers to remain patient and alert as the storm’s effects unfold.

How Geomagnetic Storms Work

Geomagnetic storms occur when charged particles from solar eruptions collide with Earth’s magnetic field, releasing energy that excites atmospheric gases — creating the glowing colors of the northern lights.

While visually breathtaking, these storms can also disrupt satellite communications, power grids, and navigation systems. Utility companies and aviation networks are monitoring the storm closely to minimize potential interference.

NOAA has confirmed that this storm’s strength could cause minor fluctuations in electrical systems or temporary GPS outages, though widespread infrastructure impacts are not expected.

A Rare Opportunity for Skywatchers

Astronomy enthusiasts across the Midwest and Great Lakes region are particularly excited, as Illinois and surrounding states are typically too far south to see the aurora with the naked eye. If conditions hold, Naperville and other parts of northern Illinois may catch a faint green or pink glow along the horizon after dark.

Residents are encouraged to capture photos with smartphones using night mode or long-exposure settings to enhance the aurora’s visibility.

Tonight’s event marks one of the most significant solar activity peaks of the current cycle, and experts expect more storms in coming months as the Sun reaches solar maximum — the period of highest magnetic activity in its 11-year cycle.

Stay tuned to NapervilleLocal.com for live weather and skywatching updates, and share your aurora photos with us if the skies deliver a show tonight.