Auroras Could Brighten the Midwest Tonight as Solar Wind Sparks Geomagnetic Storm

NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center is forecasting a moderate geomagnetic storm for April 17–18 due to a fast solar wind, with the potential for northern lights to be visible as far south as Illinois and Oregon. Viewing windows are roughly 5:00 PM–2:00 AM ET on April 17–18, and 2:00 AM–5:00 AM ET on April 18, depending on conditions; stronger bursts (G3) could push auroras farther south. If skies stay clear and dark, you might catch faint auroras from northern states, alongside the ongoing Lyrid meteor shower (peaking around April 22). For best viewing, find a north-facing, low-light area and consider using a space weather app for location-based forecasts.