Sky watchers across southern Australia are in for a spectacular treat tonight as a powerful geomagnetic storm brings the Aurora Australis to regions far beyond its usual polar stronghold, with potential visibility extending as far north as Sydney and Perth.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued an aurora watch alert after a full-halo coronal mass ejection from December 6 is expected to reach Earth, triggering G3 geomagnetic storm conditions that could illuminate southern skies in vibrant greens, pinks, and purples.
When and Where to Watch
The prime viewing window is approximately 75-95 minutes after sunset, roughly between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM AEDT, though displays could continue well into the night. Peak aurora activity typically occurs between 10 PM and 2 AM local time, so patience may reward dedicated sky watchers with the most spectacular displays.
Best Viewing Locations
Tasmania: The island state remains the best bet for aurora sightings, with visibility likely across the entire state during local night hours.
Victoria: Southern regions and coastal areas offer excellent prospects, particularly in rural locations away from Melbourne’s light pollution.
South Australia: Adelaide suburbs and southern regions could see the lights, potentially reaching as far west as Perth.
New South Wales: The far south coast has a genuine chance, with some forecasts suggesting visibility could extend to Sydney if storm conditions reach predicted G5 levels.
Western Australia: Southern regions near Perth may catch glimpses of the celestial display.
How the Aurora Forms
The phenomenon occurs when charged particles from a solar flare and coronal mass ejection collide with gases in Earth’s upper atmosphere. The stronger the geomagnetic storm, the further from the poles these shimmering lights can be observed.
The current event stems from an M8.1 solar flare that erupted from the sun on December 6, hurling a massive cloud of charged particles toward Earth. As these particles interact with oxygen and nitrogen molecules in our atmosphere, they create the characteristic aurora colors: vibrant greens from oxygen at lower altitudes, deep reds from oxygen at higher altitudes, and purples and pinks from nitrogen.
Expert Viewing Tips
For the best chance of witnessing this natural wonder, MyWeather recommends:
Find Darkness: Head to locations far from city lights. Beaches, hills, open fields, and rural areas offer the clearest views. The more horizon you can see, the better.
Look South: The Aurora Australis appears low on the southern horizon from Australian vantage points, so ensure you have an unobstructed view in that direction.
Check Cloud Cover: Clear skies are essential. Use MyWeather’s real-time cloud cover maps to find the clearest areas near you. Even patchy clouds can obscure the display.
Be Patient: Aurora displays can be unpredictable, with activity waxing and waning over hours. Most displays last between 15 minutes and several hours.
Camera Ready: While visible to the naked eye, cameras can capture more vivid colors. A 10-15 second exposure is enough to reveal the full spectrum of colors. Modern smartphones with night mode can also work well.
Dress Warm: December evenings can be chilly, especially in rural locations. Layer up for comfort during extended viewing sessions.
Current Weather Conditions
MyWeather’s analysis shows favorable conditions across most southern regions tonight:
- Tasmania: Clear skies expected with temperatures dropping to 12-15°C by viewing time. Light winds from the west.
- Southern Victoria: Mostly clear with some patchy cloud on the coast. Temperatures 14-18°C.
- South Australia: Clear conditions developing after sunset. Temperatures 16-20°C.
- Southern NSW: Partial clearing expected. Check local forecasts for your specific area.
Why Tonight is Special
Geomagnetic storm conditions could potentially reach G5 levels—the highest possible rating—meaning enhanced aurora activity could persist through Thursday. This makes tonight’s event one of the most significant aurora opportunities of 2025.
While Australia has experienced several aurora events this year, including notable displays in June, October, and November, tonight’s forecast intensity suggests it could be among the most spectacular.
Space Weather Science
The sun is currently in an active phase of its 11-year solar cycle, producing more frequent and intense solar flares and coronal mass ejections. This elevated solar activity means aurora sightings at lower latitudes are becoming more common, offering Australians increasingly frequent opportunities to witness this natural phenomenon typically reserved for polar regions.
The Aurora Australis occurs year-round but is most easily observed during the darker months from May to August. However, particularly strong geomagnetic storms like tonight’s can produce visible displays even during the longer evenings of Australian summer.
Stay Updated
Aurora conditions can change rapidly. For real-time updates:
- Monitor the Bureau of Meteorology’s Space Weather Forecasting Centre
- Check MyWeather’s live aurora alerts (available in our app)
- Follow local aurora watching groups on social media for live sighting reports
- Set up notifications through MyWeather for significant geomagnetic activity
Space weather remains unpredictable, but tonight’s forecast offers some of the most promising conditions seen in recent months. Whether you’re a seasoned aurora chaser or hoping to witness the Southern Lights for the first time, tonight could provide that once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Bundle up, find your dark sky location, and prepare for a natural light show that reminds us of the dynamic connection between our planet and the sun.
Have you captured stunning aurora photos tonight? Share them with MyWeatherMate using #AuroraAustralisMW and tag @MyWeatherMate for a chance to be featured.
Related Articles:
- Understanding Space Weather: Solar Storms and Earth’s Magnetic Field
- Best Aurora Photography Tips from Australian Experts
- Complete Guide to Stargazing in Australia