Wyoming Prepares for a Dazzling Light Show: Auroras Expected from Solar Activity

As night falls over Wyoming, residents are preparing for a potentially breathtaking spectacle—the auroras. After years of anticipation, the sun has aligned perfectly to present the state with its first chance of 2026 to witness colorful auroras.

What’s Happening in the Skies

A coronal mass ejection (CME) burst forth from the surface of the sun, expected to collide with Earth’s atmosphere tonight. This event has prompted the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center to issue a G4 (Severe) Geomagnetic Storm Watch for Monday and Tuesday.

For context, the G-scale for geomagnetic storms tops out at G5, meaning tonight’s CME could be unusually powerful. Experts are buzzing with excitement, affirming that while it’s still early to predict the auroras’ intensity, something magnificent is on the horizon.

Broad Visibilities

Auroras typically grace the skies of latitudes closer to the Arctic. However, this particular CME promises to be visible much farther south, with predictions extending as far as Texas and northern Mexico. Jan Curtis, a retired meteorologist and former state climatologist, expressed cautious optimism: “This is the best opportunity for an aurora display in several months.”

The Science Behind the Show

An X-Class solar flare detected from a sunspot on Sunday has set into motion intense solar activity heading straight for Earth. When the solar energy interacts with our atmosphere, it culminates in the breathtaking light formations known as auroras.

While some energy from the CME has deviated away from Earth, predictions remain strong that a significant impact is set to occur after dark. The strength of the auroras depends on various scientific factors, particularly the polarity of the incoming solar stream.

Rare and Exciting Times

The Space Weather Prediction Center has noted that alerts for G4 (Severe) geomagnetic storms are quite rare, enhancing the excitement for those passionate about celestial events. The last time a G4 Storm Watch was issued, Wyoming experienced one of its best auroras in recent memory. While Curtis remains optimistic about the current storm’s potential, he advises tempering expectations: “I think it might settle between G2 and G3, but anything reaching G4 would indeed be quite the spectacle.”

How to Experience the Auroras

Photography enthusiasts like Laura Redmond, based in Bar Nunn, are preparing for tonight’s display. She monitors incoming CMEs using various apps and notes the rapid speed of this CME adds to the excitement. “When a CME launches from the sun, it usually takes two to three days to arrive. This one is coming in less time, indicating a significant event,” she explains.

If you’re venturing out in Wyoming to catch a glimpse of the auroras, what can you expect? Depending on the intensity, you might see the auroras glowing overhead or just above the horizon. However, it’s good to remember that what you perceive with your eyes might differ from what your camera can capture.

Seeing is Believing

While keen observers may see a shimmering glow with their naked eyes, the colors often appear muted compared to photographs. “When looking with your eyes, you may see light misty clouds with potential hints of green and red. But photographic equipment can capture much more vibrant colors,” Redmond clarifies.

Digital photography even allows for incredible shots, with smartphones also capable of capturing the display. Utilizing the night mode feature and finding a dark spot away from city lights could enhance your viewing experience. “Position your phone to point toward the north, and in a dark area, you’ll stand a good chance of seeing them,” Redmond advises.

Timing and Optimal Locations

The G4 CME is expected to hit Earth’s atmosphere around 5 p.m. this evening. Jan Curtis plans to have his camera poised for action as soon as dusk sets in. The nature of auroras means they take time to build and can change as the night unfolds.

Curtis notes that peak activity is anticipated between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m., with midnight being the central prediction time for the auroras to manifest. With only 1% illumination from the moon during the night, the chances for a clear view are promising.

However, the weather may pose a challenge for eager aurora watchers. Predictions indicate about 60% cloud cover over many parts of north and central Wyoming. Areas like Afton, Dubois, and Jackson might offer the clearest views but at the cost of freezing temperatures.

A Call for Adventure

For those adventurous enough to brave the cold, each opportunity to witness an aurora becomes more special as solar activity wanes over the years leading to the next solar maximum. Curtis encourages Wyoming residents not to take these opportunities lightly: “We have a six-month window before these types of events become scarce until the next solar maximum.”

With the energy from tonight’s CME making its way toward Earth, Wyoming stands at the brink of a potential celestial wonder—one that could very well illuminate the night sky and captivate all who gaze upwards.