A powerful geomagnetic storm has sparked excitement across the Illawarra, with the potential for the spectacular Southern Lights, or aurora australis, to paint the night sky this evening.
Severe Space Weather Event Unfolds
The Bureau of Meteorology's Australian Space Weather Forecasting Centre has been monitoring a significant event classified as a G4-level geomagnetic storm, which began on Tuesday morning, January 20, 2026. Forecasters indicate the storm could persist into the evening and potentially intensify to a G5 level, the highest possible rating.
"Bright auroras can be visible at lower latitudes than usual when geomagnetic storms at this intensity occur, including dark-sky locations in the southern Australian region," a BOM spokesperson confirmed on Tuesday. The spokesperson added that while the chance of sightings remains, it may decrease if the storming conditions start to subside.
When and Where to Look for the Aurora
For hopeful skywatchers in the Illawarra, the elusive aurora australis is best viewed under specific conditions. The ideal viewing window is typically between 10pm and 2am, looking south from a location with dark, clear skies.
There is some promising news on the weather front: the persistent cloud cover that has blanketed the region for days appears to be clearing, which could provide the perfect canvas for the celestial light show. The region has been treated to several notable displays in recent memory, including vivid sightings in November and June of 2025.
Tips for Capturing the Phenomenon
For those aiming to photograph the lights with a smartphone, experts from groups like the Aurora Australis Facebook page recommend a few key techniques:
- Use a tripod or place your phone on a stable surface to prevent blur.
- Activate the phone's night mode setting.
- Manually tap the screen to focus on the sky or an object in the foreground.
While the aurora creates breathtaking visuals, the geomagnetic storms that cause them are a serious space weather event. These storms have the potential to disrupt critical infrastructure, including power grids, satellite services, and high-frequency radio communications.
In a related alert, the US Space Weather Prediction Centre noted that one of the largest solar radiation storms in over two decades is currently in progress. An event of similar severity last occurred in October 2003.
Residents across the Illawarra are now keeping a keen eye on the southern horizon, hoping for a rare and unforgettable display of nature's power and beauty.
