Perth Aurora Alert: Solar Storm Brings Rare Southern Lights Show

A powerful solar storm is set to deliver a spectacular light show to unusual locations. On November 12, 2025, a severe geomagnetic storm is expected to make auroras visible as far north as Perth, Australia. This rare event is driven by multiple eruptions from the sun.

The Australian Bureau of Meteorology’s Space Weather Forecasting Centre has issued alerts for the incoming activity. The heightened solar activity presents a unique viewing opportunity for residents in southern regions.

The Science Behind the Celestial Display

The event stems from a cluster of sunspots, designated AR4274, which has been highly active. This region has unleashed several coronal mass ejections (CMEs) directly toward Earth. These massive clouds of solar plasma carry the sun’s magnetic field into space.

According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Centre, the first CMEs are predicted to arrive around 0200 UTC on November 12. Their impact is expected to trigger a severe G4-level geomagnetic storm. A third, trailing CME may prolong the storm’s effects into November 13.

Viewing Tips for Skywatchers

For the best chance to see the aurora, find a location with a clear, unobstructed view to the south. Get away from city lights, as light pollution can make the faint colors difficult to see. Patience is key, as the aurora can appear in waves of varying intensity.

Your smartphone can be a powerful tool for capturing the lights. Use a long exposure or night mode setting, as the camera sensor can often detect colors that are faint to the naked eye. A tripod or steady surface will help avoid blurry images.

The aurora’s colors come from collisions between solar particles and gases in our atmosphere. Green is the most common color, produced by oxygen molecules. Rarer reds and purples can also appear during intense storms.

Broader Impacts of the Solar Tempest

While the aurora is the beautiful side effect, geomagnetic storms can have significant technological consequences. A G4 storm can cause widespread voltage control problems for power grids. Satellite and radio communications may also experience disruptions or blackouts.

According to Reuters, such space weather events are a key focus for infrastructure operators. Airlines operating polar routes are also monitoring the situation for potential communication and navigation issues. The storm serves as a reminder of our sun’s dynamic and powerful nature.

This severe solar storm offers a rare chance for many to witness one of nature’s most dazzling displays. The Perth aurora possibility highlights the direct connection between our sun and life on Earth. Keep an eye on the southern sky for a potentially unforgettable sight.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What causes an aurora?

Auroras are created when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in Earth’s atmosphere. These collisions excite the gas atoms, causing them to emit light. The different colors correspond to different types of atmospheric gases.

How common are auroras in Perth?

Visible auroras are very rare in Perth due to its latitude. They typically require an extreme geomagnetic storm, like the current G4 event, to push the auroral oval far enough north to be seen from the city.

Is it safe to look at the aurora?

Yes, observing the aurora with the naked eye is perfectly safe. The light is generated within our own atmosphere and poses no harm. The experience is similar to looking at any other natural light in the sky.

What time is best for viewing?

The best viewing is typically during the darkest hours, from late evening through pre-dawn. For the November 12 event, monitoring space weather forecasts for the exact peak of the storm will provide the most precise timing.

Can the solar storm affect power or phones?

Severe storms can potentially affect power grids and satellite signals, but operators are alerted to take preventative measures. For most individuals, impacts on personal devices like mobile phones are highly unlikely.