Geomagnetic storm watches have been issued by the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) for Monday and Tuesday, June 8 and 9, 2026, following a solar flare and coronal mass ejection (CME) that erupted on Saturday, June 6. Forecasters anticipate the arriving solar material could trigger auroral displays across northern U.S. states, though the intensity of the event remains subject to change as the CME approaches Earth.
Why are geomagnetic storm watches issued?
The SWPC issues geomagnetic storm watches when material ejected from the sun, known as CMEs, is expected to collide with Earth’s magnetic field. According to the SWPC, this solar activity is measured on a five-point scale, similar to systems used for hurricanes or tornadoes. The current forecast includes a G3-level watch for Monday and a G2-level watch for Tuesday. While these events can cause “immediate, weak degradation to high frequency (HF) communication bands,” the SWPC notes that such impacts are often mitigable for the general public.
The SWPC uses the Kp index to measure geomagnetic storm magnitude. A G2 storm corresponds to a Kp index of 6, while a G3 storm reaches a Kp index of 7.
Where can you see the northern lights?
Visibility of the northern lights depends heavily on the intensity of the geomagnetic storm. If conditions reach G3 strength, the SWPC states that the aurora could be visible as far south as Oregon, Wyoming, Iowa, and New York. For observers further south, the University of Alaska Fairbanks suggests that the aurora might be visible on the northern horizon with the aid of a camera or smartphone, potentially extending into states like Kansas, Missouri, Kentucky, West Virginia, and Maryland.
Timing is a significant factor. While the Kp index is forecasted to peak at 7 on Monday afternoon, the sun’s brightness will likely obscure the lights. Better viewing conditions may emerge after sunset, with the forecast showing a Kp index of 6.3 from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. ET.
How difficult is space weather forecasting?
Predicting the impact of solar activity remains a complex challenge for scientists. The sun is approximately 93 million miles away, and it is difficult to determine exactly how solar material will interact with Earth until it is in close proximity. Because of these variables, the SWPC provides ongoing updates. Additional details regarding the storm’s intensity are expected to be available on Monday as more data on the CME becomes accessible.
If you are planning to photograph the aurora, use a long-exposure setting on your camera or smartphone. This technique can often capture colors and details that are not visible to the naked eye.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are geomagnetic storms dangerous?
According to the SWPC, solar activity is relatively common and typically poses little to no impact on the average person. Stronger storms can affect infrastructure, but mitigation strategies are standard. - What is a CME?
A coronal mass ejection (CME) is an explosion of plasma and magnetic material from the sun. When it hits Earth’s atmosphere, it can create geomagnetic storms and northern lights. - Will I definitely see the northern lights?
Not necessarily. Forecasting space weather is difficult, and it is possible that conditions will not reach the strength required to produce visible auroras in your specific location.
Stay informed on the latest solar developments by checking the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center dashboard. Have you spotted the northern lights in your area before? Share your experiences in the comments below.
