The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has put out a G2 geomagnetic storm warning for March 19 (UTC), which is late March 18 if you’re in North America. This storm is caused by several coronal mass ejections (CMEs) heading our way. Geomagnetic storms have a scale from G1 (minor) to G5 (extreme), and it looks like we could expect some strong activity over the next few days.
Initially, forecasters tracked one CME from a solar flare on March 16, but now they believe at least four CMEs are on course to hit Earth one after the other, making things more active through March 20-21.
CMEs are giant bursts of plasma and magnetic fields from the sun. When they reach Earth, they can interact with our magnetic field and create stunning auroras, also known as the northern lights.
For those who enjoy chasing auroras, this storm could bring beautiful displays as far south as New York and Idaho. NOAA even suggests that G3 storm levels might occur, which could extend visibility into states like Illinois and Oregon.
### When Will the Storm Arrive?
The timing of the storm is still changing. NOAA predicts that the first impacts might start as early as 11 p.m. EDT on March 18 and that the strongest G2 conditions could happen between 2 a.m. and 8 a.m. EDT the following morning. Yet, other forecasts suggest that the main CME might arrive a bit later, extending the potential for auroras into early March 20. Unlike typical storms, which might peak quickly, this one could last anywhere from 24 to 48 hours.
### Will We See Auroras?
Even with a strong storm, seeing auroras isn’t guaranteed. Factors like magnetic field orientation, storm timing, and local weather can affect visibility. They are dynamic and can change quickly, with some of the best displays lasting just a few minutes.
### Aurora Season
There’s a bit of excitement in the air for aurora fans. March is often highlighted as a prime time for auroras due to an effect called the Russell-McPherron effect. This happens around equinoxes when Earth’s orientation allows incoming solar wind to connect more easily with our magnetic field. This year, conditions seem particularly favorable for auroras.
Experts emphasize that this periodic increase in geomagnetic activity can significantly heighten the chances of aurora sightings, particularly during times when Earth’s tilt opens up its natural shield against solar winds.
As always, checking the weather and planning viewing times carefully will make a difference. So if conditions look clear, grab your camera and enjoy the show!
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