Solar flare sparks forecast of aurora displays across northern US and Canada
A coronal mass ejection from an M1.4 solar flare is expected to reach Earth on October 9, prompting a G2 geomagnetic storm watch and possible northern-lights sightings in parts of the United States and Canada.
On October 6, active region AR4549 generated a long-duration M1.4-class solar flare accompanied by a Type II radio burst and a coronal mass ejection observed by the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory. The Solar Influences Data Analysis Center estimated the CME’s speed at about 560 km/s and identified an Earth-directed component expected to arrive on October 9. NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center responded with a G2 geomagnetic storm watch, forecasting G1-to-G2 conditions as the CME interacts with Earth’s magnetic field.
The most promising viewing window runs from the night of October 8 into the early hours of October 9, with auroral activity potentially starting around 11 p.m. ET and intensifying by 5 a.m. ET. If the storm reaches G2 strength, the auroral oval could shift south enough for sightings in states such as Oregon, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Colorado, Pennsylvania and New York, though clear, dark skies will be essential. Skywatchers are advised to monitor real-time NOAA forecasts and local weather before heading to dark locations with an unobstructed northern horizon.
