A Spectacular Aurora Borealis Display Expected Across 21 U.S. States on March 23, 2025

Stargazers and night sky enthusiasts, mark your calendars! On Sunday, March 23, 2025, a breathtaking display of the Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, is predicted to light up the skies across 21 U.S. states. This rare celestial event is the result of a powerful G3-class geomagnetic storm, triggered by a coronal mass ejection (CME) from the sun. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a strong aurora alert, making this a must-see event for anyone in the affected regions.

The states where the aurora may be visible include Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine. The best viewing conditions will be in areas with dark skies, away from city lights, and with minimal moonlight interference, as the last quarter moon occurs on Saturday, March 22.

What’s Causing This Spectacular Light Show?
The aurora is the result of a CME—a dense cloud of charged particles—that erupted from the sun on March 21. This CME originated from sunspot region 4028, which produced an M1-class solar flare directed toward Earth. When these charged particles collide with Earth’s magnetic field, they create the vibrant colors of the aurora.

Adding to the excitement is the Russell-McPherron effect, named after scientists Christopher Russell and Robert McPherron. This phenomenon explains why auroras are more likely around the equinox, which occurs on March 20. During this time, Earth’s magnetic field aligns with the solar wind, allowing more solar particles to enter and amplify geomagnetic activity.

What to Expect During the Event
NOAA predicts that the geomagnetic storm will reach a Kp 7 intensity, indicating bright and active auroras. While the exact timing of the aurora’s appearance is unpredictable, NOAA’s 30-minute forecast and tools like the Glendale App—Worldwide Aurora Alerts—can help skywatchers stay updated.

This event is particularly special because the sun is currently at the peak of its 11-year solar cycle, known as the solar maximum. During this phase, solar activity increases, leading to more frequent and intense geomagnetic storms. As a result, the auroral oval—the region where auroras are typically visible—can expand to as low as 40 degrees latitude, making the Northern Lights visible in more southern areas than usual.

Aurora Highlights and Comparisons
While the CME responsible for this event is considered relatively faint, the equinox effect could enhance its impact, potentially creating a stunning aurora display. However, it’s not expected to match the intensity of the G5 geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024, which was the strongest in two decades.

Jamie Carter, an award-winning reporter specializing in astronomy, notes, “This is a fantastic opportunity for people in the northern U.S. to witness one of nature’s most awe-inspiring phenomena. The combination of the equinox effect and the solar maximum makes this a rare and memorable event.”

How to Prepare for the Aurora
To make the most of this event, head to a location with minimal light pollution and a clear view of the northern horizon. Bring a camera to capture the vibrant colors, and dress warmly if you’re in a colder region.

This aurora event is a reminder of the beauty and power of our solar system. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a casual observer, don’t miss this chance to witness the Northern Lights in all their glory.

For more information on auroras and other celestial events, check out related articles by Jamie Carter, including ‘Equinox Aurora’ Alert: Northern Lights Possible Thursday In U.S. and In Photos: Jaw-Dropping ‘Blood Moon’ Eclipse And Aurora Seen From Alaska.

Stay tuned to NOAA’s updates and get ready for a night of wonder under the stars!