Kansas City, Missouri – A G4 (Severe) geomagnetic storm, in effect for Jan. 20, is expected to reach Earth as a widespread Arctic cold outbreak settles across the Heartland, increasing scrutiny on power reliability and other critical infrastructure during a period of intense demand.
According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, a coronal mass ejection, or CME, launched from the Sun late last week is forecast to arrive late Sunday into Monday. While the Heartland sits south of the highest geomagnetic risk zones, severe storms can still affect large-scale power transmission systems, satellite operations, GPS accuracy, and some radio communications, particularly across long-distance transmission networks common in central states.
The geomagnetic storm watch spans much of the Heartland, including Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma, Iowa, Arkansas, and portions of northern Texas. Officials emphasize that widespread power outages are not expected, but the timing is notable as Arctic air is forecast to drive temperatures into the single digits or below zero, sharply increasing heating demand.
For most residents, the solar storm itself will not be noticeable. Experts note the concern is the overlap of extreme cold and geomagnetic activity, which can reduce the power grid’s margin for error at a time when systems are already operating near capacity.
Utilities typically increase monitoring during geomagnetic storms and cold-weather events, with precautionary steps taken to protect transformers and maintain stable power flow. Residents are encouraged to follow standard cold-weather preparedness guidance, including keeping electronic devices charged, preparing emergency supplies, and limiting travel during the coldest periods.
Cell phone service and internet connectivity are expected to remain largely unaffected.
Auroras are unlikely across much of the Heartland but could be visible farther north if storm conditions intensify.
Geomagnetic activity may taper off into Tuesday, even as Arctic cold remains entrenched across central portions of the United States.
