Minneapolis, Minnesota – Skies across the Upper Midwest could glow with rare northern lights late Sunday night as a moderate solar storm reaches Earth, creating a narrow viewing window for millions.
According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, a G2 (moderate) geomagnetic storm is expected to peak Sunday night as energy from a waning coronal mass ejection combines with a fast-moving solar wind stream. This setup increases the likelihood of aurora visibility farther south than usual, especially between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.
The viewing zone stretches across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota, and parts of Iowa and Nebraska. Cities like Minneapolis, Duluth, Green Bay, and Sioux Falls could see activity if skies remain clear and light pollution is minimal. Northern horizons will offer the best chance, particularly away from urban centers.
Drivers and late-night travelers across rural highways, including stretches of I-94 and I-35, may notice sudden visibility changes due to bright sky glow. While no infrastructure impacts are expected, experts advise heading to dark, open areas and allowing eyes 20 minutes to adjust.
Cloud cover remains the biggest limiting factor, but clearer pockets could open briefly overnight. Additional geomagnetic activity may continue into early Monday, with updates expected if storm intensity increases.
