Latest Northern Lights Forecast: These 15 States Could See Aurora Tonight Amid Geomagnetic Storms
If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing the breathtaking Northern Lights, tonight could be your chance! Thanks to an incoming geomagnetic storm, the aurora borealis is expected to be visible across parts of the United States, reaching as far south as regions that don’t typically experience this natural wonder.
What’s Causing the Northern Lights Display?
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued an alert for heightened geomagnetic activity due to a solar storm impacting Earth’s magnetic field. These storms occur when charged particles from the sun interact with the Earth’s magnetosphere, leading to vibrant displays of green, purple, and red lights in the night sky.
The strength of this storm is expected to push the aurora borealis farther south than usual, making it visible in states that rarely get a chance to see it.
Which 15 States Could See the Aurora Tonight?
Forecasters predict that the Northern Lights may be visible in the following states:
- Alaska
- Washington
- Oregon
- Idaho
- Montana
- North Dakota
- South Dakota
- Minnesota
- Wisconsin
- Michigan
- Iowa
- Nebraska
- Illinois
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
These states have the best chance of seeing the aurora, but visibility will depend on cloud cover, local light pollution, and the strength of the geomagnetic storm.
Best Viewing Tips
If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, here are some key tips:
- Find a dark location: The farther away you are from city lights, the better your chances of seeing the aurora.
- Check the forecast: Cloud cover can block your view, so check weather conditions in your area.
- Look north: The aurora is usually most visible toward the northern horizon.
- Be patient: The lights may come and go in waves, so plan to spend some time outdoors.
- Use a camera: Sometimes, the aurora is faint to the naked eye but can be captured more vividly with long-exposure photography.
How Long Will the Northern Lights Be Visible?
The geomagnetic storm is expected to last through the night, with peak viewing times typically between 10 PM and 2 AM local time. However, aurora activity can be unpredictable, so keeping an eye on real-time aurora trackers could help you pinpoint the best viewing window.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in one of the lucky states listed above, tonight could be a rare and unforgettable opportunity to witness the beauty of the Northern Lights. Don’t miss out—find a dark spot, bundle up, and enjoy nature’s most spectacular light show!
