Aurora sightings from Seattle during major geomagnetic storms

During strong geomagnetic storms, auroral displays have been visible from Seattle and have been reported and photographed by residents and local media. Notable solar storm periods (for example during the October–November 2003 storms) produced northern lights that were visible as far south as the Seattle area on some nights. Observers reported viewing aurora from waterfront parks and elevated viewpoints within the city when geomagnetic activity was sufficiently strong. Such sightings are episodic and occur only during relatively rare, intense space-weather events.