Massive Solar Storm Could Trigger Rare Auroras in U.S. Skies This Weekend

A powerful solar storm is heading toward Earth. It may light up the skies across parts of the United States. Experts say the storm will arrive late on September 1 and continue into September 2.

This event is caused by a “cannibal CME,” a rare solar phenomenon. The eruption came from sunspot region 4199. It released a fast-moving coronal mass ejection that is now targeting Earth.

What Is a Cannibal CME and Why It Matters

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a warning. The agency predicts a G2-level storm at first. It could increase to a G3, which is strong.

That means northern lights could be seen farther south than usual. States like Oregon, Illinois, and New York might get a view. These lights are called auroras and are caused when solar particles hit Earth’s magnetic field.

Cannibal CMEs happen when one CME overtakes another. This creates a larger and more intense storm. Tamitha Skov, a space weather physicist, confirmed that two storms are heading our way. The UK Met Office agrees and says the auroras may be more visible than usual.

However, a bright moon could limit visibility in some areas.

Image source: space.com

How Solar Storms Affect Earth and Technology

Solar storms can do more than create light shows. They may interfere with GPS, radio, and satellite signals. In strong cases, power grids could be affected too.

CMEs are huge explosions of plasma and magnetic fields from the Sun. When they reach Earth, they can trigger colorful auroras. But they also pose risks to our tech systems.

NOAA ranks geomagnetic storms from G1 to G5. A G3 storm, like the one expected, is strong. It could bring disruptions and visible auroras to mid-latitudes.

Stay alert and keep an eye on the sky. This solar storm may deliver one of the most stunning aurora displays in recent years.

Info at your fingertips-

Q1: What is a cannibal CME?

It’s when one solar storm overtakes another. This creates a more powerful solar event aimed at Earth.

Q2: Where can the aurora be seen?

Possibly in Oregon, Illinois, New York, and other northern U.S. states.

Q3: When will the solar storm hit Earth?

Late on September 1 and early on September 2, 2025.

Q4: Can solar storms cause problems?

Yes, they can affect GPS, satellites, and power grids in rare cases.

Q5: What is a G3 geomagnetic storm?

It is a strong solar storm that can cause visible auroras and some tech disruptions.