Northern Lights may be visible in N.J. again tonight due to severe geomagnetic storm

Northern Lights Possibly Visible in New Jersey Wednesday Night

Keep an eye on the sky Wednesday night, though it's uncertain if residents of New Jersey will see the colorful Northern Lights again. The auroras flickered in the night sky and were visible from some parts of the state late Tuesday, and they may reappear Wednesday evening.

Solar Activity and Visibility

The NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center predicts the largest solar flares, which cause the Northern Lights, will peak Wednesday afternoon during daylight hours. It remains unclear if these solar flares will persist after sunset.

If the solar activity continues into the evening, the Northern Lights could be visible across much of the northern United States and possibly some southern states, according to AccuWeather forecasters.

Potential Impacts of the Solar Storm

Experts warn today's geomagnetic storm might be strong enough to interfere with some communication satellites and parts of the U.S. power grid. However, the extent and severity of these disturbances are still uncertain.

What Are Geomagnetic Storms?

Geomagnetic storms result from solar explosions that cause vivid colors to glow in the sky. This natural light display, known technically as the aurora borealis, is more commonly called the Northern Lights.

The NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center said: "The biggest solar flares — which trigger the colorful lights — will occur Wednesday afternoon, when it’s still light outside."
AccuWeather forecasters noted: "If the flares do linger after the sun goes down, then it’s possible the Northern Lights will be visible across much of the northern United States, and perhaps in some southern states."

Author's summary: A severe geomagnetic storm may cause the Northern Lights to appear again Wednesday night in New Jersey, but visibility depends on solar flare activity continuing after sunset.

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NJ.com NJ.com — 2025-11-12

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