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Moderate geomagnetic storm forecast for tonight: What to expect

NOAA forecasts a G2 geomagnetic storm with auroras visible in up to 19 U.S. states, caused by coronal mass ejections and high-speed solar wind during the spring equinox.

  • On Wednesday, NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center issued a storm watch for a G2 geomagnetic storm expected to begin at 8 p.m. ET and continue until Thursday at 8 p.m. ET, with auroras visible in nearly 19 U.S. states.
  • A coronal mass ejection from the sun is expected to reach Earth, and NOAA links the increased geomagnetic storm risk partly to Friday's spring equinox 'equinox effect.'
  • NOAA's ratings show elevated geomagnetic activity, with a six out of nine disturbance level today and conditions rising from G1 late Wednesday to G2 overnight; best viewing is 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. facing north in dark, low–light locations.
  • Utilities and satellite operators should monitor systems because a G2 storm can affect high-latitude power systems, spacecraft operations, and HF radio, while migratory animals may face navigation issues, NOAA says.
  • Scientists point to equinox-related 'cracks' in Earth's magnetic field that let more solar particles in, intensifying auroras during March's aurora season around the March 20 spring equinox.
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Phys.org broke the news in United Kingdom on Monday, March 16, 2026.
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