Residents across western Washington were treated to a rare and spectacular sight last night as the Aurora Borealis lit up the skies above Lake Washington. The National Weather Service (NWS) Seattle captured the stunning display from their office roof, sharing vibrant images of the colorful lights dancing through the evening sky.
According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC), a G4 (Severe) Geomagnetic Storm was observed late on November 12 at 04:20 UTC. Scientists attribute the phenomenon to a coronal mass ejection (CME) from the sun that reached Earth’s magnetic field, intensifying auroral activity across much of the northern United States.
While cloud cover is expected to increase overnight, meteorologists say any breaks could still provide glimpses of the aurora. NOAA officials continue to monitor solar conditions as the geomagnetic storm persists.
Residents are encouraged to look north after dark for a chance to witness the breathtaking display, conditions permitting.
Aurora Borealis as seen from the office roof this evening over Lake Washington! High clouds will continue to increase tonight, but any breaks in the clouds will allow for the northern lights to be visible. #WAwx https://t.co/IUeqS5cZ4T pic.twitter.com/itM8oIJrNL
— NWS Seattle (@NWSSeattle) November 12, 2025