Solar storm brings spectacular Northern Lights to sky-watchers as far south as Texas

A severe geomagnetic storm brought spectacular light displays to many parts of the United States on Thursday night, with skies as far south as San Antonio bathed in rich hues of magenta and green.

The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights as they are commonly known, are often more visible in Earth’s polar regions, but due to heightened solar activity these dancing displays could be seen with the naked eye in numerous southern states.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the storm was ranked 4 out of 5 in severity, allowing for more widespread illuminations across night skies, particularly across Europe.