Massive Solar Storm Approaching Earth: Scientists Issue G3 Alert

The NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a geomagnetic storm watch for June 8, a G3 (Strong) geomagnetic storm, and a watch for June 9 a G2 geomagnetic storm, because a powerful CME (coronal mass ejection) is expected to impact Earth on 8 June 2026. The CME erupted from the Sun on June 6 and is on the way to collide with Earth's magnetic field.

The storm may produce intense aurora (Northern & Southern Lights) at lower than normal latitudes, scientists say. Most people will see signs that might be auroras, but space-weather watchers are keeping an eye on possible impacts on satellites, GPS, radio communications, and power grid infrastructure.

The event coincides with an increased solar activity in the year in which the Sun is at or close to the summit of its current solar cycle. Predictions suggest the storm is going to be either a glancing blow or a direct hit on Earth's magnetic field from the CME. Direct impact would give rise to greater geomagnetic disturbance and auroras.

A G3 storm is "strong" but not on the same scale as a historic event like the Carrington Event of 1859, according to NOAA. However, space-weather organizations worldwide are keeping a close watch on the oncoming sunshine and updating the forecasts as it nears the Earth.