Skywatchers across the northern U.S. have a rare Thursday night treat: the northern lights could be visible in 19 states as a moderate geomagnetic storm hits Earth. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts a G2 storm for July 2–3, triggered by a coronal mass ejection (CME) that arrived earlier today. If you live near the Canadian border—from Washington to Maine—look north after dark for a potential aurora display.
The aurora borealis, typically confined to high latitudes, sometimes dips south when solar activity strengthens. Thursday's event stems from a CME—a burst of magnetized plasma from the Sun—that slammed into Earth's magnetic field. NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center issued the alert Wednesday, giving skywatchers time to prepare. G2 storms are common during solar maximum, the Sun's 11-year peak of magnetic activity, which began around 2024–2025. This storm's intensity means the aurora might reach as far south as New York, Wisconsin, and Washington state—unusual for July, when daylight lingers late.
Key details: The storm peaks July 2 into early July 3, with best viewing 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. local time, away from city lights. States with the highest probability include Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Michigan, and Maine. Others on the list—like Vermont, New Hampshire, and northern Idaho—could catch a show if skies are clear. NOAA rates G2 as “moderate,” meaning power grid fluctuations and satellite drag are possible but minimal. The CME arrived on July 2 around 3 p.m. Eastern, according to NOAA satellite data, and the storm's effects should last 12–24 hours.
Analysis: This forecast highlights how space weather directly impacts everyday life—and the growing accuracy of prediction models. Solar cycles peak roughly every 11 years, and the current cycle (Solar Cycle 25) has been stronger than earlier forecasts predicted. That means more frequent G2 and even G3 storms through 2027. For casual observers, apps like My Aurora Forecast and NOAA's aurora dashboard make tracking easier than ever. The real action happens when a CME arrives at the right magnetic orientation—this one appears favorable for a deep penetration.
Outlook: If you miss Thursday night, another CME may be on its way. NOAA watches for active sunspot regions now rotating into Earth-facing view. Meanwhile, Friday could see residual aurora at higher latitudes. Bookmark NOAA's 30-minute aurora forecast or set an alert for the next storm. The northern lights are a spectacle of nature—and tonight, 19 states get front-row seats.
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Northern Lights Tonight: 19 States May See Aurora Thursday Night
NOAA forecasts a G2 geomagnetic storm for July 2-3 as a CME arrives, with aurora most likely on the northern horizon in U.S. states close to the Canada border.
Jamie Carter, Senior Contributor
Forbes
2 min read
5/10
Key Takeaways
- NOAA upgraded its forecast from G1 to G2 (moderate) after the CME arrived stronger than expected on July 2, 2026.
- The 19 states most likely to see the aurora include Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, plus nearby states.
- Best viewing window is 10 p.m.–2 a.m. local time on July 2–3, with clear skies and minimal light pollution critical for visibility.
- This G2 storm can cause minor power grid fluctuations and satellite drag, but no widespread disruptions are expected.
- Solar Cycle 25 remains above average, with G2 or stronger storms occurring several times per year through 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions
A G2 geomagnetic storm is a moderate solar disturbance on NOAA's 1–5 scale, caused by a coronal mass ejection or high-speed solar wind. It can drive the aurora borealis to lower latitudes and may cause minor power grid fluctuations or satellite drag.
According to NOAA, 19 states have a chance of seeing the northern lights on Thursday night, July 2, 2026. These include Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and others near the Canadian border.
The best viewing window is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time. The aurora is most intense around midnight when the geomagnetic storm peaks. Clear skies and minimal light pollution are essential.
A coronal mass ejection (CME) is a burst of magnetized plasma from the Sun. When it reaches Earth, it disturbs the magnetosphere, accelerating charged particles that collide with atmospheric gases. These collisions produce the green, red, and purple light of the aurora.
If you live in or near the 19 states forecasted—especially those along the northern tier from Washington to Maine—you have a good chance. Check NOAA's 30-minute aurora forecast app for real-time predictions.
NOAA expects the G2 storm to last from July 2 into early July 3, roughly 12–24 hours. Auroral activity may continue at a lower level on July 3 for northern-tier states.
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www.forbes.com
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