Strong Aurora Alert Issued For 21 U.S. States Sunday — What To Know

Forbes - Mar 22nd, 2025

This weekend, a 'very strong' G3-class geomagnetic storm is expected to make the Northern Lights visible across 21 U.S. states, reaching as far south as Nebraska and Indiana. The storm is driven by a coronal mass ejection (CME) from the sun, which will interact with Earth's magnetic field starting Sunday, March 23, 2025. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts a series of storms, with Sunday predicted to be particularly intense, allowing for potentially bright and active auroras. The event is highly anticipated, especially for states closer to the Canadian border, and conditions such as a last quarter moon and clear skies will aid visibility.

The occurrence of this geomagnetic storm during the equinox is significant due to the Russell-McPherron effect, which enhances the likelihood of auroras. This phenomenon, alongside the sun's current solar maximum phase, contributes to the increased frequency and intensity of geomagnetic storms. Such events not only provide a visual spectacle but also highlight the complex interactions between solar activity and Earth's magnetic environment. As the sun's activity continues to rise, similar occurrences are expected to become more common, making this a noteworthy period for both scientists and skywatchers alike.

Aurora Borealis Noaa Geomagnetic Storm Northern Lights Coronal Mass Ejection (Cme) Solar Activity Russell Mc Pherron Effect Equinox

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RATING

8.2

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a well-researched and timely overview of the potential visibility of the Northern Lights in the U.S., supported by authoritative sources like NOAA. It excels in accuracy, source quality, and public interest, making it a reliable resource for readers interested in this natural phenomenon. The clarity and readability are strong, ensuring the information is accessible to a general audience. However, the article could improve in transparency by providing more direct citations for specific claims and in engagement by incorporating interactive elements. While the article's potential for controversy is low, its impact lies in raising awareness and interest in space weather events. Overall, the article effectively informs and engages readers about a fascinating and rare occurrence.

Accuracy

The story accurately reports on the potential visibility of the Northern Lights in the U.S. due to a geomagnetic storm, with NOAA forecasts supporting the claim of a G3-class storm expected on March 23, 2025. The mention of a CME from March 21 aligns with NOAA and space weather reports, confirming the factual basis of the storm's cause. The article correctly identifies the Russell-McPherron effect as enhancing auroral activity around equinoxes, a scientifically supported phenomenon. However, the story could improve by specifying the sources of some claims, like the exact states where the aurora will be visible, to enhance verifiability. Overall, the factual claims are well-supported and align with expert predictions.

Balance

The article maintains a balanced perspective by focusing on the scientific explanation of the aurora phenomenon and its potential visibility. It avoids sensationalism and provides a straightforward account of the expected events. However, the article could enhance balance by including perspectives from local meteorologists or astronomers to provide regional insights into viewing conditions. This would ensure a more comprehensive view of the topic, considering both national forecasts and local conditions.

Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, with a logical flow that guides the reader through the explanation of the aurora's causes and expected visibility. The use of scientific terms is balanced with lay explanations, making the content accessible to a general audience. However, the article could improve clarity by providing a brief summary or conclusion to reinforce the key points, ensuring that readers leave with a clear understanding of the event's significance and implications.

Source quality

The article relies on reputable sources such as NOAA and space weather experts, which are authoritative in the field of geomagnetic and solar phenomena. These sources are well-regarded for their expertise and reliability, lending credibility to the information presented. The inclusion of specific forecasts and scientific explanations directly from NOAA enhances the article's trustworthiness. However, the article could benefit from citing additional expert opinions or studies to provide a broader context and corroborate the information further.

Transparency

The article provides a clear explanation of the scientific phenomena involved, such as CMEs and the Russell-McPherron effect, which aids transparency. However, it lacks explicit attribution for some of the claims, such as the specific states where the aurora will be visible, which could be improved by direct citations or links to the original NOAA forecasts. Greater transparency in the sources and methodology behind the predictions would enhance the reader's understanding of the basis for the claims.