Northern Lights in California: Strong solar storm could make them visible in parts of CA, impact power Friday

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — Stargazers in Northern California could be in for a treat Friday night. A strong solar storm could make the Northern Lights visible in parts of the state.

But the storm could also impact your power, TVs and radios.

MORE: Stunning telescope image shows ‘God’s Hand’ reaching across the Milky Way

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says the outbursts of plasma are capable of disrupting satellites in orbit and power grids here on Earth.

The agency issued a rare geometric storm watch — the first in nearly 20 years.

The University of Alaska says the highly active aurora displays will be visible late Friday night into Saturday morning. Possibility they may be visible low on the horizon as far south as Southern California.