The skies may be coming alive over the next couple of nights. Scientists at the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have issued a G3 (Strong) geomagnetic storm watch for November 6–7, 2025.
What triggered this and what to expect
On November 4, the sun erupted with two powerful X-class solar flares — one rated X1.8 and another X1.1 — launching bursts of energy and charged particles into space. These flares were followed by additional activity including strong M-class flares on November 5.
Together, these eruptions sent a coronal mass ejection (CME) and energized solar wind that are predicted to impact Earth’s magnetic field. The SWPC notes that the CME’s arrival is expected between the evening of November 6 and morning of November 7 (EST).
Because of this event, the auroral oval (the band in the sky where the northern lights can appear) is forecast to expand farther south than usual. According to observers, states that normally only see auroras in rare cases could now get a show.
Where you might see the auroras
While typically seen near the Arctic, the strength of this storm raises the chance that states well south of the polar regions may glimpse the lights. Forecasts suggest that the aurora could be visible in U.S. states such as Pennsylvania, Iowa, Oregon and other northern parts of the country.
That said, the best chances remain in northern U.S. states — think Montana, Minnesota, Michigan, northern New York, and similar latitudes — especially on clear, dark nights. Cloud cover, moonlight, city light pollution, and local weather will affect visibility.
What the “G3 – Strong” storm rating means
On the NOAA space weather scale, a G3 level indicates the potential for moderate to strong geomagnetic effects:
Possible disruptions to power systems (voltage irregularities)
Increased drag on satellites in low Earth orbit, potential orientation/telemetry issues for space assets
Degraded high-frequency (HF) radio communications and navigation systems, especially at high latitudes
Importantly, this is a watch, not a confirmed severe storm — the SWPC states there is still lower confidence in the ultimate intensity of the storm than in the arrival timing of the CME.
Why this is noteworthy
The flares on November 4 mark the strongest since June this year, and the active solar region (AR 4274) responsible is now rotating into a position that increases its Earth-facing potential.
This means we’re entering a period where solar activity could produce more surprises, and space weather watchers will be keeping a close eye on developments.
What you can do to prepare
If you’re hoping to catch the auroras:
Head out after dark on November 6 and into the early hours of November 7.
Choose a dark, open location away from city lights for the best visibility.
Look northwards (in the Northern Hemisphere) and consider the sky’s horizon — auroras at lower latitudes may sit closer to the northern horizon.
Be aware of weather: clouds, haze, moonlight can all reduce your chance of seeing the lights.
For tech or communication concerns: if you run sensitive radio or satellite gear, you may wish to monitor space-weather alerts over the next 24–48 hours.
Final word
While time will tell exactly how bright and widespread the auroral display will be, the ingredients are in place for a strong geomagnetic event. Whether you catch shimmering curtains of green, purple or pink overhead — or simply enjoy knowing the sun is doing its thing — this is a space-weather event worth watching.
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Sources:
NOAA/SWPC: “G3 Watch for 6 and 7 November UTC-Days”
Watchers.News: “G3 – Strong geomagnetic storm forecast for November 6–7, aurora as low as Pennsylvania to Iowa and Oregon”
Space.com: “Sun unleashes 2 colossal X-class solar flares…”
New York Post: “’Strong’ geomagnetic storm makes Northern Lights sightings possible in US on Thursday, Friday”