Geomagnetic Storm Will Likely Trigger Northern Lights

A solar wind event may produce aurora displays across 22 U.S. states on September 24, 2026.

Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Space

Isometric editorial illustration of geometric aurora light arches over a minimalist forest canopy against a solid dark sky. — A solar wind event is expected to trigger a geomagnetic storm on September 24, 2026, potentially bringing aurora displays to 22 states. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Is the U.S. adequately prepared to handle a major solar storm event?

A solar wind event driven by a coronal hole high-speed stream and a coronal mass ejection is expected to trigger a G1 to G2 geomagnetic storm. These conditions may result in visible aurora across 22 states in the United States on September 24, 2026.

Why it matters

Geomagnetic storms occur when solar particles interact with Earth's magnetic field, potentially causing widespread space weather effects. Understanding these events is crucial as major solar activity has the capacity to impact global infrastructure.

Forecasters anticipate Kp 5.33 conditions and a G1-class geomagnetic storm. While current data identifies 552 cities with potential aurora visibility, the total potential economic impact of a solar superstorm is estimated at $2.4 trillion.

The details

The event is caused by a coronal hole high-speed stream and a coronal mass ejection that occurs when the interplanetary magnetic field points south. This interaction allows charged particles to enter the magnetosphere, with optimal viewing conditions requiring dark skies free of moonlight interference ahead of the Harvest Moon.

September 23, 2026: Active conditions are expected by late in the day.
September 24, 2026: G1 geomagnetic storms are likely in the early hours.
September 26, 2026: The full Harvest Moon will occur.

The Big Picture

This forecast follows a pattern established by the National Weather Service's Air Quality Index thresholds for communicating atmospheric hazards to the public. By categorizing space weather intensity, scientists provide a standardized framework to communicate potential disruptions to technology and power grids.

Residents in the 22 affected states may observe the Northern Lights if they position themselves in dark areas with clear skies. Future advancements in monitoring these events are essential to mitigate potential damage to satellite communication and power systems.

The takeaway

Aurora visibility is highly dependent on local weather conditions, making clear, dark skies the most important factor for observers. While this event is expected to be minor, monitoring solar activity remains a vital practice for safeguarding technological infrastructure.