Many skywatchers across the northern United States have a reason to be excited. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released a new aurora forecast map, and space-weather observers show that a minor geomagnetic storm (G1 level) is brewing. The dancing Northern Lights are normally seen in parts of the Arctic range; however, today’s conditions may make them visible in several parts of the United States.
At the center of the forecast is the auroral “view line,” which marks how far south the glow might stretch across the northern horizon. For many Americans who have never seen the aurora borealis, tonight could bring a rare chance.
Which States Could See the Aurora?
Many reports suggest that approximately 16 states may get a view of the aurora. Even though the exact list is unconfirmed, data suggest that the chances extend beyond the far north.
Here are the states with the highest odds of visibility:
- Always in range: Alaska
- Upper Midwest & Great Lakes: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, and parts of northern Illinois
- Northeast: Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, and New York
- West & Mountain States: Washington, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming
What’s Behind This Rare Event?
The main cause behind this event is a fast-moving stream of solar wind which comes from a coronal hole on the sun. According to NOAA, as it strikes Earth, geomagnetic activity is expected to rise to a Kp index of 5, which is classified as a minor storm.
There is more to the aurora than just a breathtaking display of light. Green, pink, and even red curtains are produced across the sky when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the atmosphere.
As per predictions, the best time to view this will be between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. EDT, with the most favorable window likely around midnight to 2 a.m. local time.
How to Maximize Your Chances
Getting a glimpse of the aurora isn’t easy; you’ll need the right conditions and a little patience. Here are some key tips:
- Seek darkness: Go to parks or rural areas where the sky is dark to avoid city lights.
- Look north: The lights may appear low along the horizon before spreading overhead.
- Be mindful of your time: Although activity may start earlier or continue until before dawn, the best time to view is typically midnight to 2 a.m.
- Use your phone’s Night Mode: For photos, use night mode on your smartphone; it’s good at capturing auroras.
- Stay updated: Use tools such as NOAA’s Aurora Dashboard or the Aurorasaurus app for real-time updates.
What Happens Next
Many forecasters warn that the aurora sighting window may be quite brief. After the solar-wind impact, geomagnetic activity is expected to decline. This will likely reduce the Kp index and decrease the chances of viewing the aurora.
Even though the auroras pose no threat to people on the ground, these geomagnetic storms can cause disruptions to satellites and radio communication systems. This is why the activity is monitored so closely.
In Summary: Will Your State Be in the Zone?
Residents in the northern parts of the U.S. may have front-row seats for the dancing lights tonight. The list of states includes (but is not limited to):
Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Iowa, northern Illinois, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.
If you are in these areas, find a dark spot and face north—you might just witness a once-in-a-lifetime show.