G2 – Moderate Geomagnetic Storm Watch issued for July 3, 2026

A G2 – Moderate Geomagnetic Storm Watch has been issued for July 3, 2026. According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center alert, the highest predicted storm level is G2 – Moderate on July 3, following G1 – Minor levels on July 1 and below G1 levels on July 2. This new Watch supersedes all prior watches.

Potential impacts of this geomagnetic activity will primarily affect areas poleward of 55 degrees geomagnetic latitude. Power grid fluctuations are possible, and high-latitude power systems may experience voltage alarms. There is also the potential for spacecraft orientation irregularities and increased drag on low Earth-orbit satellites. HF (high frequency) radio propagation can fade at higher latitudes. Auroras may be visible as far south as New York, Wisconsin, and Washington state.

The triggering event for this watch is linked to a full-halo coronal mass ejection (CME) associated with an X1.1-class solar flare that occurred at 20:50 UTC on June 30, 2026, from solar region AR 4479 (N16W31). Preliminary analysis suggests the CME may impact Earth between July 3 and July 4, 2026. The NOAA SWPC continues to monitor solar activity closely for further developments.