Washington, D.C. – A powerful G4 (Severe) geomagnetic storm could bring rare auroras visible from Alabama to Northern California beginning late Sunday, June 1, as a major solar eruption heads toward Earth.
According to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, a coronal mass ejection (CME) that erupted from the Sun on May 30 is expected to arrive by Sunday night, triggering strong geomagnetic activity through Monday, June 2. The event could disrupt GPS systems, power grids, and radio communications while also illuminating skies far beyond the usual northern latitudes.
Strong auroral activity is likely across much of the northern U.S., with visibility potentially extending as far south as Birmingham, Little Rock, and Sacramento. Peak impacts are expected overnight Sunday into early Monday, though G1-G2 level storms may linger into June 3. NOAA notes that the strength of the storm depends on the CME’s magnetic orientation when it hits Earth.
While infrastructure disruptions are possible, experts emphasize that mitigation plans are in place. Officials recommend limiting reliance on high-frequency radio signals and ensuring backup power for sensitive systems.
The public is urged to check NOAA’s website for real-time updates. Geomagnetic storm watches remain in effect through Monday, with additional alerts possible if conditions intensify.
