Powerful Solar Flare Erupts, Potential for Widespread Auroras on Wednesday
A significant solar flare erupted from the sun over the weekend, unleashing a powerful coronal mass ejection (CME) predicted to impact Earth on Wednesday (Nov.12),possibly bringing the aurora borealis – commonly known as the Northern lights – to unusually low latitudes across the United States. The flare is the strongest of 2025 to date and, combined with the effects of previous solar activity, is expected to trigger a “severe” geomagnetic storm.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts the resulting geomagnetic storm could reach G4 levels – the second highest on the agency’s scale. This level of geomagnetic disturbance can cause fluctuations in power grids, disruptions to low-frequency radio communications, and inaccuracies in GPS systems.
However, NOAA emphasizes there is no need for the general public to prepare for the storm. For those hoping to witness the aurora, experts recommend finding a location away from city lights and allowing approximately 20 minutes for eyes to adjust to the darkness. While no special equipment is required,cameras and phone screens can sometimes enhance the vibrancy of the colors due to their large apertures.
This heightened solar activity is characteristic of solar maximum, the peak of the sun’s roughly 11-year cycle. Astronomers believe the current cycle’s maximum may have already occurred last year, but the sun continues to produce frequent and intense flares and CMEs. The magnetic field disturbances caused by these events are a natural part of the sun’s activity, and while they can have technological impacts, they also create the spectacular displays of the aurora.
