Solar storms are predicted to bring faint but visible auroras to the Northern Hemisphere from late Thursday to early Friday morning. The phenomenon is not likely to cause significant disruptions to power grids or communications, according to experts. People in Canada and northern U.S. states such as Alaska, Washington, Montana, North Dakota, and Minnesota may have the opportunity to witness faint colorful displays based on the current space weather forecast. If the moderate solar storms intensify closer to nighttime, individuals as far south as Illinois and New York might also catch a glimpse of the auroras.

Erica Grow Cei, a spokesperson for the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, mentioned that multiple factors need to align for the auroras to be visible in southern regions. To observe the spectacle, it is recommended to wait for the skies to darken and then venture outside away from bright city lights. Using a smartphone camera may help capture hints of the auroras that are not easily visible to the naked eye.

The sun’s magnetic field is currently at the peak of its 11-year cycle, resulting in more frequent solar storms and aurora displays. Although the solar storms expected for tonight are anticipated to be less intense, they could briefly disrupt precision GPS equipment such as those used by farmers for harvesting crops. In May, unusually strong solar storms caused vibrant aurora displays across the Northern Hemisphere.