The Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in the U.S. has issued a ‘strong geomagnetic storm watch’ for this evening (March 31) following two Coronal Mass Ejections (CME) from the Sun March 28.

The likelihood of aurora borealis (northern lights) dancing in the skies tonight is “good, with moderate confidence of timing and intensity,” while impacts to technology should be small, NOAA reported.

“When the CME approaches Earth, NOAA’s DSCOVR satellite will detect the real-time solar wind changes and SWPC forecasters will issue any appropriate warnings. Impacts to technology from a G3 storm generally remain small, but it can drive the aurora further equator-ward of its polar home. Aurora may be visible over the northern tier states if the conditions are favourable.”

The combined arrival of both events at the magnetosphere protecting Earth is expected early March 31. Additional analysis and tweaking of the forecast is expected to continue throughout today, SWPC forecasted.

For additional information, visit SWPC’s phenomena pages at space weather, geomagnetic storms, CMEs, and aurora and viewing tips. NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center is the official source for space weather forecasts, watches, warnings and alerts.

Lead image: Still from a video about two CMEs heading toward Earth – rated G3 – it means a strong geomagnetic storm watch in effect. NASA/ESA SOHO LASCO C3, NASA/SDO, SWPC

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