Northern Lights Illuminate Switzerland After Rare Solar Storm

Background

Typically, the aurora borealis—also known as the northern lights—are reserved for high-latitude countries such as Norway, Sweden, and Iceland. These vibrant light displays are triggered by solar storms, which eject charged particles from the sun toward Earth, causing excitation in the planet’s magnetic field. Over the past week, a powerful geomagnetic storm impacted much of Europe, making these lights visible well beyond their usual boundaries.

What is happening now

Last night, Swiss residents across the country witnessed an extraordinary spectacle as bands of green, purple, and red illuminated the skies. Social media has been flooded with photos from Zurich, Bern, and even as far south as Ticino. Scientists from ETH Zurich and the Federal Office of Meteorology and Climatology (MeteoSwiss) confirmed the event was due to a rare, intense solar storm (classified as G4). The current displays are expected to continue through the night, though they may taper off as geomagnetic activity subsides.

Impact on Switzerland

The event captivated both seasoned astronomers and the general public. Several astronomy groups organized impromptu viewing excursions, while meteorological services used the occasion to gather valuable atmospheric data. Despite the beauty, high levels of geomagnetic activity can pose minor risks, including potential disruptions to radio communications and GPS accuracy, according to Swiss infrastructure officials. No major disruptions have been reported so far.

What happens next

Experts advise skywatchers in Switzerland to look north for a chance to spot remaining auroras, especially in areas with minimal light pollution. MeteoSwiss will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates if geomagnetic activity intensifies. This event has also prompted renewed public and scientific interest in space weather monitoring, as Switzerland’s research institutions collaborate with European agencies to better understand and predict future phenomena.