A significant portion of the United States could be in for a treat on Monday night as conditions are expected to produce “auroral displays” visible in much of the country, bringing colorful displays of the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) to the night skies for Millions of Americans.
If you live anywhere north of central Georgia and South Carolina through to southern California, there’s a chance that you could see something when you step outside on Monday night.
‘Widespread Auroral Displays’
In a post on X, noted atmospheric scientist Matthew Cappucci shared that a “severe” geomagnetic storm is predicted that could bring “widespread auroral displays.”
“A SEVERE or G4 geomagnetic storm is now predicted by the Space Weather Prediction Center ! This could bring widespread auroral displays to the United States if things ensue as modeled. This is anticipated TONIGHT, Monday night, January 19!” Cappucci wrote in a post on X.
Cappucci notes that the storm is expected to be stronger than initially projected and could begin around 8 p.m. Eastern time.
“We are awaiting a magnetic shockwave called a CME, or coronal mass ejection. A NASA model shows the CME may be stronger, and faster, than originally modeled, meaning it could slam Earth’s magnetic field around 8 p.m. Eastern time Monday night. That impact will spark auroral displays,” Cappucci added.
Widespread Visibility
Cappucci shared a map that shows where the auroral displays are expected to be visible. While northern states are expected to see more vivid colors overhead, some states to the south may still see a glow, which would be even more visible on a camera or cell phone.
UPGRADE! A SEVERE or G4 geomagnetic storm is now predicted by the Space Weather Prediction Center ! This *could* bring widespread auroral displays to the United States *if* things ensue as modeled. This is anticipated TONIGHT, Monday night, January 19!
We are awaiting a magnetic… pic.twitter.com/4AK4lG61em
— Matthew Cappucci (@MatthewCappucci) January 19, 2026
“The northern U.S. may see some colors overhead, primarily green and/or purple, whereas areas to the south might notice a reddish or green glow on the northern horizon. The colors won’t appear quite as vibrant to your eyes as they do on camera, but an impressive display remains possible,” Cappucci wrote.
Some Uncertainty
While Cappucci and atmospheric scientists do expect the geomagnetic storm to occur, it’s not guaranteed, and it’s difficult to know just how strong the impacts will be.
“NOTE: there remains uncertainty regarding the timing, and realistically, the impact could ensue any time within 6 hours either side of that time frame,” Cappucci said. “Also note that, while we believe the CME will hit Earth, a more glancing blow can’t be ruled out. That would reduce impacts.”
Cappucci also pointed out that it’s difficult to know exactly when to expect the auroral displays.
“Also note that we do NOT HAVE A SPECIFIC TIME. Space weather forecasting is still in its infancy, and timing your observation with the occurrence of an auroral ‘substorm’ is purely a game of luck. 10 p.m,” he wrote. “Eastern time/9 p.m. Central may be a good time to attempt viewing.”
Needless to say, if you do decide to try to look for the auroral displays, attempt it with patience.
