GALLERY: Northern lights put on a show over the Sault

A strong solar storm hit Earth Friday that produced northern lights in the U.S. and Canada, with more possible tonight.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued a rare severe geomagnetic storm warning when a solar outburst reached Earth on Friday afternoon, hours sooner than anticipated. The effects were due to last through the weekend and possibly into next week.

NOAA alerted operators of power plants and spacecraft in orbit to take precautions, as well as the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Here are some photos of the northern lights seen from Fifth Line in the Sault Ste. Marie, submitted by SooToday reader Kyle Palaro, and one from reader Tyler Perin.

Have photos to share? Send them to news@sootoday.com.