North America poised for light display of aurora borealis – NPR

North America is positioned for a visible display of the aurora borealis, as a geomagnetic storm is expected to trigger light displays across the continent starting May 16, 2026.

The atmospheric phenomenon may be visible as far south as Maine and Michigan beginning May 16, 2026, and continuing through the weekend of May 18, 2026.

Space Weather and Radio Interference

The current aurora activity follows a period of solar volatility. According to the Space Weather Prediction Center, a moderate R2 radio blackout occurred on May 10, 2026.

An R2 radio blackout is a technical classification for a moderate disturbance in the ionosphere, which can disrupt high-frequency radio communications on the sunlit side of Earth.

These events are linked to geomagnetic storms, which occur when charged particles from the sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field. This interaction can push the aurora borealis, which is typically confined to polar regions, further south into mid-latitude states.

Reporting from NPR and Space indicates that the current geomagnetic conditions have created a window for observers in the United States to witness the lights during the period between May 16 and May 18, 2026.

Public interest in the event has led to the release of viewing guides to help observers identify the best conditions and locations to see the display this weekend.