Northern Lights Could Reach Oregon and Midwest as G3 Solar Storm Barrels Toward Earth

The aurora borealis could light up the night sky as a G3-level geomagnetic storm is forecast for Tuesday, potentially pushing displays into Oregon and the Midwest. (Credit: AFP News)

For anyone who has fancied seeing the northern lights but baulked at the logistics of a trip to Iceland, Tuesday morning might offer a rare opportunity closer to home.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a G3 geomagnetic storm watch, predicting that a significant solar ejection could push auroral displays as far south as Oregon and Illinois.