Skywatchers across Vancouver Island may want to keep an eye on the night sky tonight, as a powerful solar storm could bring the northern lights as far south as Victoria.
According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, severe geomagnetic storm conditions were triggered earlier today after the arrival of a coronal mass ejection.
G4 (severe) storm levels were first reached at 2:38 p.m. EST, placing much of southern Canada within the potential viewing zone.
On social media, NOAA confirmed that an S4 severe solar radiation storm is now in progress, calling it the largest event of its kind in more than 20 years.
The last time storms of this magnitude were observed was in October 2003. NOAA noted that impacts are mainly focused on aviation, satellite operations, and space systems, but the side effect for those on the ground could be a vivid aurora display.
BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, and the territories are all expected to have a front-row seat to the light show. For Vancouver Island, conditions are shaping up well, with clear skies forecast through the evening and temperatures staying mild.
G4 (Severe) storm conditions first reached at 1938 UTC (2:38pm EST) upon CME shock arrival. Please continue to visit https://t.co/TV7Yw6Lq1Y for the latest information and updates. pic.twitter.com/rXtthPmP9C
— NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (@NWSSWPC) January 19, 2026
However, visibility may come down to timing and local conditions. While skies are expected to be clear, fog patches are forecast to develop near midnight, particularly closer to the water.
SWPC Video Update from Shawn Dahl, SWPC Service Coordinator about the severe G4 and S4 ongoing storms. Apologies for the hastiness of this, but we have been very busy notifying aviation, power grid, FEMA, and more about these storms. Stay aware at https://t.co/TV7Yw6Lq1Y pic.twitter.com/rT0iNTng4B
— NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (@NWSSWPC) January 19, 2026
Aurora forecasts show a Kp index of eight out of nine and a G-scale rating of four out of five, both strong indicators that the northern lights could be visible well beyond their usual range.
The current “viewline” map places much of southern BC in the green-to-red zone, signalling a moderate to high chance of seeing the aurora if skies cooperate.
Here’s how to give yourself the best chance to see them:
- Get away from city lights: Head to darker areas away from streetlights and buildings. Beaches, rural roads, and higher elevations often offer better visibility
- Look north: The northern lights typically appear low on the northern horizon at first before spreading higher into the sky
- Be patient: Aurora activity can come in waves, with quiet periods followed by sudden bursts of colour
- Use your camera: Even if the lights look faint to the eye, phone cameras and long-exposure photos often pick up more detail
- Dress warmly: Temperatures are expected to dip to around zero overnight, with slightly warmer conditions near the water
Tonight’s forecast calls for sunny conditions during the day, followed by a few clouds this evening and fog patches developing later at night.
If the fog holds off and solar activity stays strong, Vancouver Island residents could be treated to one of the most impressive aurora displays seen in years.
