G2 – Moderate Geomagnetic Storm Watch issued for October 11, 2026

A G2 – Moderate Geomagnetic Storm Watch has been issued for October 11, 2026, according to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center. The watch forecasts G1 – Minor geomagnetic storm conditions on October 9 and October 10, with the highest storm level of G2 – Moderate predicted for October 11. This watch supersedes any prior watches in effect. The alert notes that a previous G2 watch for October 9 has been downgraded to G1, and a G1 watch has been added for October 10, 2026.

Potential impacts are expected primarily poleward of 55 degrees geomagnetic latitude. Power grid fluctuations are possible, particularly in high-latitude areas where voltage alarms may occur. Operational satellites may experience orientation irregularities, and increased drag on low Earth-orbit satellites is possible. Additionally, high frequency (HF) radio propagation could experience fading at higher latitudes, and auroras may be visible as far south as New York, Wisconsin, and Washington state during periods of enhanced geomagnetic activity.

The triggering events for these geomagnetic storm conditions include coronal mass ejections (CMEs) that left the Sun on October 7 and 8, 2026, which are anticipated to arrive at Earth on October 11. Solar activity has been elevated, with Region 4549 (N10W41) producing an M6.7 flare at 15:48 UTC on October 8. Additional enhancements in the solar wind environment are expected through October 10, due to a negative polarity coronal hole high speed stream. Geomagnetic storm conditions of G1 – Minor to G2 – Moderate levels are likely to occur throughout the forecast period.