G2 – Moderate Geomagnetic Storm Watch issued for March 23, 2026

A G2 – Moderate Geomagnetic Storm Watch was issued for March 23, 2026. The alert supersedes all prior watches and highlights a likelihood of moderate geomagnetic storming, particularly during the early portions of the UTC day. No storm levels above G1 are forecast beyond this date.

Potential impacts under this watch include areas primarily poleward of 55 degrees geomagnetic latitude. Power grid fluctuations may occur, and high-latitude power systems could experience voltage alarms. Satellite operators may encounter orientation irregularities and increased drag on low Earth-orbit spacecraft. HF radio propagation may be affected at higher latitudes, leading to fading. Aurora displays may be visible as far south as New York, Wisconsin, and Washington state.

According to the official forecast discussion issued by NOAA SWPC, recent solar wind parameters reflected CME influences, with a peak wind speed of 600 km/s and significant fluctuations in the interplanetary magnetic field. While no Earth-directed CMEs were observed, persistent influences from coronal hole high-speed streams (CH HSS) are expected to sustain geomagnetic activity through March 24, 2026.