Northern Lights Forecast: ‘Strong’ Geomagnetic Storm May Bring Aurora Borealis To These 15 States

Forbes - Apr 16th, 2025

A geomagnetic storm is expected to impact Earth's magnetic field due to a recent coronal mass ejection from the sun's surface, causing the northern lights to be visible in several northern U.S. states on Wednesday night. The NOAA has forecasted auroral activity with a Kp index of five, indicating that the aurora borealis will stretch further from the poles, offering a striking display for observers in parts of the Midwest and Pacific Northwest. This event follows a geomagnetic storm watch issued by NOAA, which expects the strongest activity on Wednesday with a potential minor storm on Thursday.

This geomagnetic activity occurs within the context of the sun reaching its solar maximum, a peak in its 11-year cycle that increases the frequency of northern lights displays. The phenomenon results from solar electrons interacting with Earth's atmosphere, particularly with oxygen and nitrogen, creating visually stunning auroras. The peak, which began in October, is projected to last until early 2026, enhancing the likelihood of aurora sightings in regions further south than usual. This event is part of a broader upswing in geomagnetic activity, which has seen northern lights extend to unprecedented southern locations in recent years.

Noaa Geomagnetic Storm Solar Maximum Photography Tips Coronal Mass Ejection Northern Lights Aurora Borealis

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RATING

8.2

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a comprehensive and accurate overview of the upcoming geomagnetic storm and its potential to make the northern lights visible across several U.S. states. It effectively uses authoritative sources, such as NOAA, to support its claims, enhancing its credibility. The article is well-structured and clear, making complex scientific information accessible to a general audience.

While the article is timely and engages readers with practical tips for viewing and photographing the aurora, it could benefit from a broader range of perspectives, particularly cultural or historical contexts, to enhance balance and public interest. The article's potential for controversy is low, as it focuses on factual reporting without delving into contentious issues.

Overall, the article is a strong piece of informative journalism, with minor areas for improvement in perspective inclusion and deeper methodological transparency. It successfully informs readers about an impending natural event, fostering public interest in space weather phenomena.

Accuracy

The story accurately reports on the geomagnetic storm and potential visibility of the northern lights, supported by NOAA's forecast. The claims about the Kp index and the regions where the aurora might be visible align well with the NOAA data, lending credibility to the facts presented.

However, some aspects, such as the exact timing and intensity of the geomagnetic storm, require further verification, as these can vary with real-time space weather conditions. The mention of a coronal mass ejection on April 13 is consistent with NOAA's reports, but the precise impact on geomagnetic activity could benefit from additional data.

Overall, the story's factual basis is strong, with minor areas needing verification to ensure precision and truthfulness.

Balance

The article primarily focuses on the scientific and observational aspects of the northern lights, providing a well-rounded view of the phenomenon. It includes expert recommendations from NOAA and photography tips from National Geographic, which adds depth to the coverage.

However, the story could improve its balance by incorporating perspectives from local communities or individuals who have experienced such events, which would enrich the narrative with personal insights. The emphasis remains heavily on the scientific and technical aspects, potentially overlooking the cultural and regional significance of the aurora borealis.

Clarity

The article is well-structured, with clear headings and subheadings that guide the reader through the content. The language is straightforward and accessible, making the complex topic of geomagnetic storms understandable to a general audience.

The inclusion of practical tips for viewing and photographing the northern lights adds to the article's clarity, providing readers with actionable information. Overall, the article maintains a neutral and informative tone, contributing to its clarity and effectiveness.

Source quality

The article relies on reputable sources, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and National Geographic, which are well-regarded for their expertise in space weather and photography, respectively. These sources enhance the article's credibility and reliability.

The use of authoritative sources ensures that the information is grounded in scientific research and expert opinion, minimizing the risk of misinformation. The article does not cite a wide variety of sources, but the ones used are highly authoritative and relevant to the topic.

Transparency

The article is transparent in its presentation of information, clearly attributing data and forecasts to NOAA and other credible sources. This transparency helps readers understand the basis for the claims made about the geomagnetic storm and aurora visibility.

While the article effectively communicates the sources of its information, it could enhance transparency by explaining the methodology behind the Kp index and how geomagnetic forecasts are determined. This would provide readers with a deeper understanding of the scientific processes involved.