G1 – Minor Geomagnetic Storm Alert issued on May 5, 2026

A G1 – Minor Geomagnetic Storm Alert was issued on May 5, 2026, after the geomagnetic K-index reached a value of 5 at 02:44 UTC. The active alert covers the synoptic period from 00:00 UTC to 03:00 UTC and remains in effect as of the latest update.

According to NOAA SWPC, the main area of impact is expected to be regions poleward of 60 degrees geomagnetic latitude. Potential impacts may include weak power grid fluctuations and minor impacts to satellite operations. Auroras may be visible at high latitudes, specifically including locations in the northern United States such as northern Michigan and Maine.

This alert was triggered as the geomagnetic field responded to transient solar wind influences, likely associated with coronal mass ejection (CME) effects. Recent solar wind observations indicate moderately enhanced conditions, with elevated total magnetic field and southward Bz component, resulting in storm-level geomagnetic activity. These effects are forecast to persist through midday on May 5, before quiet to unsettled conditions are expected to return as the CME influence wanes.