The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a G4 (Severe) Geomagnetic Storm Watch for Monday, June 2, 2025, following a powerful coronal mass ejection (CME) from the Sun on May 30. This solar event is anticipated to cause significant geomagnetic disturbances, potentially affecting technological systems and offering rare opportunities to witness the northern lights across much of the United States.
The CME, originating from the active sunspot region AR4100, is expected to reach Earth by Sunday, June 1, with the most intense geomagnetic effects anticipated between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. EDT. NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) warns that the storm could escalate from G3 (Strong) to G4 (Severe) levels, with a possibility of reaching G5 (Extreme) conditions during its peak between June 1 and 2 .
As a result of this geomagnetic activity, the aurora borealis, commonly known as the northern lights, may be visible much farther south than usual. Sightings have been reported as far south as Alabama and Northern California, with prime viewing areas including the Pacific Northwest, Midwest, and parts of the Mid-Atlantic and Ohio Valley . Stargazers are advised to seek locations away from city lights and to look north between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time for the best chance of witnessing the display.
The SWPC cautions that the true impact of the CME will only be known once it reaches solar wind monitoring spacecraft located about 1 million miles from Earth. These observations will help determine the magnetic strength and orientation of the CME, which are critical factors in assessing the levels and duration of geomagnetic storm conditions .
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from NOAA and take necessary precautions to mitigate potential disruptions to communication and power systems. The current storm conditions are expected to ease by Monday evening, though minor geomagnetic activity may continue into Tuesday .
This solar event underscores the importance of space weather monitoring and preparedness, as geomagnetic storms can have wide-ranging effects on modern technological infrastructure.
