An “Extreme (G5) Geomagnetic Storm Watch” has been issued in the United States. This is the first alert in over two decades due to a powerful geomagnetic storm striking Earth.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center issued the alert, indicating that Earth-directed coronal mass ejections will continue throughout the weekend.
This activity poses potential risks to infrastructure in near-Earth orbit and on the ground, potentially affecting communications, the electric power grid, navigation, and satellite operations. The purpose of these watches is to give operators sufficient time to implement protective measures.
The last instance of a G5 geomagnetic storm that was considered severe occurred in October 2003.
According to the NASA Solar Dynamics Observatory, this level of geomagnetic activity is significant. One of the more positive effects of this celestial event is the potential visibility of the northern lights much further south than usual, possibly as far south as Alabama, making this storm extraordinary.
Experts predict that the aurora could be visible in the Deep South, with northern Alabama potentially offering a view of the phenomenon. In the West, spectators in areas as far south as Northern California might also witness the auroras.
For those in regions where clouds may obstruct overnight viewing, using eclipse viewing glasses from early April could enhance the experience. With the current size of the geomagnetic storm, it’s suggested that the sun may be visible to the naked eye, though protective eyewear is recommended for safety.
