More Northern Lights Possible Over IL Amid Geomagnetic Storm

CHICAGO — A "severe" geomagnetic storm that made the aurora borealis visible over Illinois and more than two dozen states Sunday night may retain enough strength for another viewing Monday night, according to the latest forecasts.

Forecasters monitoring the storm have observed at least five coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from the sun since Saturday, and the northern lights dazzled parts of Illinois, Indiana and Michigan late Sunday. The National Weather Service shared images of the lights seen from Chicago, Somonauk and Franklin Grove.

According to Forbes, approximately 30 states reported aurora sightings, extending as far south as Texas and Mississippi. The Space Weather Prediction Center confirmed a "severe" geomagnetic storm Monday morning and said there was a chance that elevated activity could linger long enough for an evening encore.

"Space weather forecasters observed Severe (G4) Geomagnetic Storm conditions just before (10 a.m. CDT) on August 12, and geomagnetic storm conditions are forecast to potentially persist through this evening," the SWPC said in a news release. "A severe geomagnetic storm includes the potential for aurora to be seen faintly as far south as Alabama and Northern California."

While not as strong as the historic "G5" displays that sent the northern lights dancing over much of the United States in May, "G4" and "G3" storms can be plenty strong for revelers to spot in less light-polluted areas of Illinois.

Forecasters in Northern Indiana said the weather looked "decent" for the potential aurora repeat, but noted slightly better odds of catching the lights up in Michigan.

By Monday afternoon, the evolving forecast included a "G2" geomagnetic storm watch for the daytime hours, and a predicted maximum strength of "G3," but the details will continue to take shape into the evening. Residents can find the live space weather conditions and updated aurora forecasts on the SWPC's website.

Generally, experts recommend revelers seek out places away from city lights with a clear view of the northern horizon to have the best chance of spotting auroral activity. Camera lenses are more sensitive than the naked eye, and smartphones may help viewers spot fainter displays that are more difficult to see.