The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a forecast indicating that the aurora borealis may be visible across extensive areas of Canada and the northernmost U.S. states on Monday night, with the possibility of sightings further south.
Shawn Dahl, the service coordinator at the prediction center, explained that this forecast coincides with ongoing intense geomagnetic and solar radiation storms currently affecting the Earth's magnetic environment.
These geomagnetic storms, which generate vibrant northern lights displays, have implications beyond visual phenomena. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, such storms can disrupt satellite operations, hinder GPS communications, and impact various infrastructure systems that rely on stable geomagnetic conditions.
Dahl noted that the storm's severity is expected to persist until at least Tuesday, with no immediate signs of weakening.
Earlier in November, similar solar storm activity triggered striking auroras in parts of Europe, including countries such as Hungary and the United Kingdom. In the United States, the northern lights were observed as far south as states like Kansas, Colorado, and Texas.
Solar radiation storms can interfere with space-based objects and specific types of communication systems. However, the current conditions do not pose a risk to astronauts aboard the International Space Station, according to Dahl's assessment.
He also emphasized the rarity of the present storm's intensity, stating that it has reached levels not seen in over twenty years.