A display of spectacular northern lights could light up the skies tonight (Tuesday) across several parts of the United States due to a geomagnetic storm. According to space and weather experts, a coronal mass ejection (CME) from the sun will cause geomagnetic storms that could produce and push auroras farther south than usual. This could give millions in over 18 states a chance to see the colorful lights.
This spectacular scene began last night and could extend into September 2-3, 2025, with clearer and darker skies offering the best views.
What Are the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are colorful displays visible in the night sky that often appear as glowing ribbons of blue, green, red, or purple. They occur when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth’s upper atmosphere, causing them to emit light.
Why Are the Northern Lights Visible Tonight?
The northern lights are visible tonight because tonight’s auroras have been triggered by a fast-moving coronal mass ejection (CME) launched by an M2.7 solar flare from sunspot AR 4199 in August 2025. The CME (a massive cloud of charged solar plasma and magnetic fields), will likely hit Earth’s magnetic field and spark G2 (moderate), G3 (strong), or even G4 (severe) levels.
Storming started late on September 1 and is expected to continue through September 3. This means that people might view it multiple times. Physicist Dr. Tamitha Skov noted on X that this storm might be a “Cannibal CME,” where a faster eruption merges with a slower one, creating an intense storm.
What Causes This Aurora Event?
The solar cycle goes through a natural cycle that lasts for 11 years. During this period, it transitions between low and high magnetic activity. Currently, it is at its peak phase, which produces more solar flares and CMEs. Auroras are formed when CMEs reach Earth, disturb magnetic fields, and push charged particles towards the poles. According to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center and the U.K. Met Office, the storm could be a G3 level between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. EDT on September 2.
Full List of 18 States Where Auroras May Be Visible
According to NOAA’s aurora view line map, the northern lights could be visible tonight in these 18 states. Also note that the view could be full or partial.
- Alaska
- Montana
- North Dakota
- Minnesota
- Wisconsin
- Michigan
- Maine
- South Dakota
- Vermont
- New Hampshire
- Idaho
- Washington
- Oregon
- New York
- Wyoming
- Iowa
- Nebraska
- Illinois
When is the Best Time to Watch the Northern Lights?
The best time to watch the northern lights is tonight, just after sunset until before sunrise. The peak could be around midnight to 2 a.m. local time. You should be patient because auroras can come and go in waves. Displays may also appear on September 3 if the storm stays strong.
Tips for Best Viewing
- Go somewhere dark away from city lights.
- Look north and make sure nothing is blocking your view of the sky.
- Check the weather and ensure the skies are clear.
- Use apps such as “My Aurora Forecast & Alerts” or “Space Weather Live” for real-time info.
- Be patient because the lights may start faint and take time to grow brighter.
- Try a camera, especially night mode on phones, because they can capture colors better than our eyes.
Conclusion
It is rare to see the northern lights from the comfort of your home. If you live in any of the 18 states listed above, find a dark spot with a clear view of the northern horizon. Check updates from one of your preferred apps and take photos if possible.