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NOAA Issues G2 Geomagnetic Storm Watch for Wednesday Night as Aurora Zone Expands

A coronal mass ejection from a recent M‑class solar flare is forecast to arrive March 19, as the equinox effect heightens auroral potential.

Overview

  • NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center forecasts G2 (moderate) geomagnetic storming with a chance of isolated G3 (strong) periods on March 19.
  • Auroras could be visible across roughly 19–20 U.S. states, potentially reaching as far south as parts of Illinois and Oregon depending on storm strength.
  • The best viewing window is generally 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. local time in dark, clear locations away from city lights, with updates available on NOAA’s Aurora Dashboard.
  • Forecasters caution that confidence will improve once satellites sample the CME near Earth, which will clarify the timing, intensity and duration of any storm.
  • A new moon on March 19 will provide darker skies, though local cloud cover will ultimately determine visibility.