A rare and powerful solar storm is lighting up skies across North America this week, with the northern lights making a dramatic appearance in places as far south as California, Indiana, and possibly even Oklahoma. Space weather experts say this is one of the most widespread aurora events in recent years, fueled by a series of massive solar eruptions.
Solar Flares Spark a Nationwide Light Show
The spectacle began after three enormous solar flares—known as coronal mass ejections (CMEs)—erupted from the sun between November 9 and 11. The most intense, an X5.1-class flare, was the largest of 2025 so far and sent a surge of charged particles hurtling toward Earth. These particles interact with our planet’s magnetic field, creating the glowing auroras that have long fascinated skywatchers.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued a rare G4 geomagnetic storm watch for November 12, warning that the storm could reach “severe” levels and make the aurora visible much farther south than usual.
Where and When to See the Northern Lights
According to NOAA’s latest forecast, the northern lights could be visible in at least 21 U.S. states, including:
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Alaska-
North Dakota-
Minnesota-
Montana-
Wisconsin-
Michigan-
Maine-
South Dakota-
Idaho-
Vermont-
Washington-
New Hampshire-
Wyoming-
New York-
Iowa-
Massachusetts-
Pennsylvania-
Nebraska-
Ohio-
Illinois-
IndianaBut the aurora’s reach may extend even farther. Reports and photos have already surfaced of the northern lights glowing over the San Francisco Bay Area—a rare treat for California residents. Some forecasts suggest the aurora could be visible near the horizon as far south as Oklahoma City and Raleigh, North Carolina, if conditions are right.
The best viewing times are expected to be between 4 p.m. and 1 a.m. EST, with the strongest activity likely late in the evening and just after midnight. Clear, dark skies away from city lights offer the best chance to catch the show.
How to Maximize Your Chances
If you’re hoping to witness this celestial event, here are some expert tips:
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Find a dark, north-facing spot with a clear view of the horizon.
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Let your eyes adjust to the darkness for at least 30 minutes.
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Use your phone’s camera—it can often pick up faint auroras before your eyes do.
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Dress warmly and be patient; auroras can appear suddenly and may last for minutes or hours.
Why This Storm Is So Special
While the northern lights are a common sight in Alaska and Canada, it’s rare for them to be visible so far south. This week’s display is the result of unusually strong solar activity, which scientists say is part of the sun’s natural 11-year cycle. The current solar maximum is expected to peak in 2025, meaning more spectacular auroras could be on the way.
What’s Next for Skywatchers?
With the sun’s activity ramping up, experts recommend keeping an eye on aurora forecasts in the coming months. Even if you miss this week’s show, more opportunities may be just around the corner.
For now, grab your coat, head outside, and look up—you might just catch a glimpse of one of nature’s most breathtaking phenomena.
Sources
1. Northern lights may be visible in 21 US states tonight - Space
2. Northern lights seen over Bay Area as large geomagnetic storm hits
3. Will Indiana see northern lights tonight, Nov. 11? When and where to look at the sky
4. Severe geomagnetic storm could make northern lights visible across ...
5. 3 Giant Solar Outbursts Explode Towards Earth, Prompting Aurora ...
