A powerful geomagnetic storm dazzled skywatchers across the United States on June 1, 2025, as vibrant auroras—typically confined to polar regions—became visible in areas as far south as Illinois, Ohio, and even Alabama. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) had issued a G4 (Severe) Geomagnetic Storm Watch following a significant coronal mass ejection (CME) from the sun on May 30, which reached Earth on Sunday, triggering the widespread auroral activity.
The storm’s peak occurred between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. EDT, captivating observers nationwide. Reports of shimmering green and purple lights poured in from states including New Mexico, Wyoming, and Washington, with some sightings extending to Northern California and the Mid-Atlantic region. The phenomenon was so intense that auroras were even visible in parts of the Southern Hemisphere, notably in Australia and New Zealand.
NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) confirmed that the geomagnetic storm reached G4 levels, indicating severe conditions capable of affecting satellite operations, communication systems, and power grids. Despite the potential risks, no significant outages or disruptions were reported. Shawn Dahl, a coordinator at SWPC, advised enthusiasts to seek dark, rural areas away from city lights for optimal viewing, noting that even smartphone cameras could capture the display.
The auroral spectacle is attributed to the sun’s heightened activity during its 11-year solar cycle, which is currently approaching its peak. This cycle increases the frequency of CMEs—massive bursts of solar plasma and magnetic fields—that interact with Earth’s magnetosphere, leading to geomagnetic storms and, consequently, auroral displays. While the current storm is not as intense as the one experienced in May 2024, it underscores the dynamic nature of space weather and its tangible effects on our planet.
Looking ahead, NOAA forecasts suggest that geomagnetic activity may persist at elevated levels, with the potential for continued auroral displays in the coming days, depending on solar conditions. Skywatchers are encouraged to monitor updates from SWPC and local weather services to stay informed about viewing opportunities and any potential impacts on communication and navigation systems.
