Severe Solar Storm Alert: Northern Lights to Dazzle 24 States After X-Flare

A severe solar storm alert has been issued following a massive solar event, potentially leading to spectacular Northern Lights displays. NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center has provided an upgraded alert, forecasting significant aurora visibility across a wide swath of the United States, with up to 24 states possibly witnessing the aurora borealis extending into mid-latitude regions. This significant event stems from an X1.9-class solar flare that erupted on Sunday, January 18, 2026, originating from Sunspot region AR4341 and peaking around 1:09 p.m. EST. The flare, which lasted for hours, was particularly potent, with the X1.9 rating placing it high on the scale of X-class flares, the strongest category. This severe solar storm underscores the dynamic nature of space weather impacts.

Full Halo Coronal Mass Ejection Speeds Toward Earth

The solar flare also unleashed a full halo coronal mass ejection (CME). This large burst of plasma from the Sun is directed towards Earth, traveling at high speeds estimated between 1000 and 1500 km/s. This CME is forecast to reach Earth between January 19 and 20, 2026, with its arrival potentially causing significant geomagnetic disturbances, a key aspect of a severe solar storm.

Severe Geomagnetic Storm Forecasted for Severe Solar Storm

The anticipated CME is expected to trigger a geomagnetic storm. NOAA forecasts range from a strong G3 to a severe G4 storm, signifying a severe geomagnetic event. These storms are classified on NOAA’s five-tier scale and occur when Earth’s magnetic field interacts with the CME. The storm’s intensity, particularly for this severe solar storm, depends on the CME’s magnetic orientation; a southward alignment can enhance interaction and energy transfer into Earth’s magnetosphere. Space weather forecasters are closely analyzing data to refine predictions for this potential severe solar storm.

Aurora Display Expected Across Mid-Latitudes Due to Severe Solar Storm

The anticipated geomagnetic storm presents an exciting opportunity for aurora viewing, with the aurora borealis potentially visible much further south than usual. This mesmerizing light show, a direct result of charged particles from the severe solar storm interacting with Earth’s atmosphere, is forecast for up to 24 states, including mid-latitude areas like Oregon, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Northern California, Alabama, Washington, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin, Iowa, Wyoming, Vermont, New Hampshire, New York, Colorado, and even New Zealand. The aurora borealis forecast is particularly strong for this event.

The timing of this severe solar storm is ideal for viewing conditions. A new moon occurred on January 18, 2026, ensuring very dark night skies crucial for observing fainter aurora displays. Clear weather will be the final key ingredient for a spectacular show.

Broader Space Weather Impacts of a Severe Solar Storm

Beyond the visual spectacle of a severe solar storm, these events have significant implications for technology. Satellite operations may face disruptions, GPS navigation could become less accurate, and increased atmospheric drag on spacecraft is possible. Radio communications, particularly polar high-frequency (HF) bands, may experience interference or blackouts. Power grids can experience fluctuations, and in extreme cases, critical infrastructure relying on electronic systems faces risks. An S3 solar radiation storm also occurred, affecting shortwave radio, especially near the Arctic, adding to the broader space weather impacts.

A Highly Active Solar Cycle and Severe Solar Storm Activity

This event highlights the ongoing heightened activity of the Sun. While Solar Cycle 25 peaked in 2024-2025, turbulent space weather, including severe solar storm events, continues. Years following solar maximum often provide some of the most dramatic aurora displays, making 2026 a prime year for Northern Lights activity and showcasing solar cycle 25 activity. Scientists noted that the sunspot region AR4341 is magnetically complex, possessing a high potential for further flares and contributing to the likelihood of future severe solar storm occurrences. This dynamic space weather news serves as a reminder of our connection to the Sun’s power and prompts preparedness for its technological impacts.