G2 – Moderate Geomagnetic Storm Watch issued for April 1, 2026

A G2 – Moderate Geomagnetic Storm Watch was issued for April 1, 2026. The alert, released by NOAA SWPC on March 31 at 22:13 UTC, predicts the highest storm level reaching G2 – Moderate on April 1. Conditions are expected to decrease to G1 – Minor on April 2, with no geomagnetic storming below G1 forecast for April 3. The current Watch supersedes any and all previous watches in effect.

Potential impacts are primarily expected poleward of 55 degrees geomagnetic latitude. Power grid fluctuations may occur, and high-latitude power systems could experience voltage alarms. Satellite operators should be aware of the possibility of orientation irregularities and increased drag on low Earth-orbit satellites. High frequency (HF) radio propagation may fade at higher latitudes. Auroras may be visible as far south as New York, Wisconsin, and Washington state during elevated storm conditions.

The triggering event for this Watch is linked to CME (coronal mass ejection) effects from the X1.4 major flare that occurred at 03:19 UTC on March 30, 2026, originating from solar Region 4405. Enhanced solar wind disturbances associated with this CME are expected to arrive from late March 31 through April 1, leading to the predicted geomagnetic activity.