Ontario skywatchers may get another rare chance to see dazzling northern lights tonight, thanks to an intense geomagnetic storm that lit up the province with spectacular aurora displays on Tuesday.
After Earth was struck by a severe solar storm, forecasters say conditions remain strong enough for more colourful skies on Wednesday night — and possibly into Thursday — as long as the clouds cooperate.
According to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), G4-level geomagnetic activity is still possible, with a risk of even stronger disturbances. A major geomagnetic storm watch remains in effect until Thursday at noon.
Why Ontario’s Auroras Are So Bright Right Now
The breathtaking displays were triggered by a powerful solar flare and coronal mass ejection (CME) early Tuesday morning, sending charged particles hurtling toward Earth. When these particles collide with atmospheric gases at the magnetic poles, they create vivid green, red and purple lights.
Canada entered a major geomagnetic storm warning early Wednesday, and the effects are expected to linger into the night.
We are in a Solar Maximum — and It Shows
This year’s auroras have been some of the most dramatic in decades. That’s because the sun is currently in a phase of high activity known as a solar maximum, which happens roughly every 11 years.
NASA confirmed the solar maximum began in late 2024. Scientists say we may be near its peak now, though the exact apex is hard to pinpoint until activity starts trending downward.
York University astrophysicist Elaina Hyde warns that 2025 may be one of the best aurora years for a long time:
⭐ “It looks likely we are peaking,” she said. “Next year probably won’t be as stunning.”
After the sun calms, southern Ontario may not see displays like this again until 2035.
Why the Lights Are So Frequent and So Intense
During a solar maximum:
- Solar flares are larger
- CMEs are more frequent
- The sun releases more energy
This dramatically increases the chances of auroras — even at low latitudes like southern Ontario.
Walter Stoddard from the Ontario Science Centre explained last year that these storms are getting more powerful:
⭐ “It’s more energy — it’s more energized.”
Expect more displays through 2025, 2026, and possibly into 2027 before activity tapers off.
Best Time & Place to See the Northern Lights
For the best chance tonight:
- Look 1–2 hours after sunset through midnight
- Find a dark spot away from city lights
- Avoid full moon brightness
- Hope for clear skies
Late fall and winter are ideal for aurora viewing because the long, cold nights hold less moisture and create better visibility.
Where to Check the Aurora Forecast
Stay updated using:
🌐 NOAA Aurora Dashboard – Space Weather Prediction Center
🌐 Space Weather Canada – Solar storm watches & warnings
If clouds stay away, Ontario may be treated to yet another night of cosmic magic — one of the last truly spectacular shows of this solar cycle.