Northern Lights Visible Across Unprecedented Southern Latitudes Following Major Solar Storm
WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a rare celestial event, the aurora borealis, commonly known as the northern lights, were observed as far south as Texas, Mississippi, and Alabama on Thursday evening, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center reported a severe G4 geomagnetic storm, the strongest since 2003, triggered by a coronal mass ejection from the Sun. The storm intensified Wednesday night, causing the auroral oval to expand dramatically southward, allowing millions of Americans typically outside the northern lights' range to witness vibrant green, purple, and red displays.
Researchers confirmed sightings in 30 U.S. states, including Arizona, Florida, and California. Power grid operators and satellite communications systems have been placed on alert for potential disruptions.
The spectacular phenomenon persisted through early Friday morning, with experts predicting possible additional shows over the weekend as solar activity continues.