Aurora activity is likely to increase as the geomagnetic storm watch is in effect

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – A strong geomagnetic storm warning of magnitude G3 is in effect October 4-6, 2024.

Forecasters at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center issued the warning as two coronal mass ejections are expected to reach Earth this week, causing increased geomagnetic activity.

Impacts include a more active aurora visible across much of the northern United States. There is also the possibility of minor impacts on some technological infrastructure.

As aurora activity increases, southern Alaska will also experience a storm, bringing cloud cover to much of the region.

Mostly cloudy skies are expected across much of the Southwest, South Central and Southeast from Thursday night into Saturday morning. Anchorages and locations to the north will experience cloudbursts again before 11pm on Thursday and late Friday into Saturday morning. Further clearing is likely to occur north of Talkeetna.

If you see the Northern Lights, share your photos with the Alaska Weather Source team here.

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