Are the Northern Lights Visible Tonight Across the U.S.? Everything to Know

Yes — the northern lights could once again be visible tonight across much of the United States. After an incredible display earlier this week, forecasters say another coronal mass ejection from the Sun is expected to reach Earth, setting the stage for another night of auroras.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said a strong geomagnetic storm may continue through the evening hours of November 13, 2025, potentially lighting up skies across the northern and even central U.S. regions. Clear, dark skies and low light pollution will be key for anyone hoping to see the show.

Why the Northern Lights Could Be Seen Tonight

The rare visibility of the northern lights in the U.S. is the result of a coronal mass ejection (CME) — a massive burst of solar plasma and magnetic energy from the Sun. When these particles collide with Earth’s atmosphere, they excite gases like oxygen and nitrogen, creating the colorful glow known as the aurora borealis.

According to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, the event is currently rated a G2 (moderate) geomagnetic storm, with a Kp index around 6 out of 9. Such levels are strong enough to push the auroral oval — the zone where the lights are visible — well south of the typical Arctic regions.

This means many northern U.S. states, and possibly some central ones, could catch a glimpse tonight. If skies remain clear, the lights may appear as shimmering green, pink, or purple waves on the northern horizon.

Which States Could See the Northern Lights?

NOAA’s forecast places parts of about 18 to 21 states within the potential viewing area tonight. The aurora is most likely visible across the northern contiguous U.S., but strong storm conditions may push visibility farther south than usual.

According to the latest forecast, the following states have the best chance of seeing the northern lights tonight:

• Alaska
• Washington
• Oregon
• Idaho
• Montana
• Wyoming
• North Dakota
• South Dakota
• Minnesota
• Wisconsin
• Michigan
• New York
• Vermont
• New Hampshire
• Maine
• Nebraska
• Iowa
• Illinois

In recent nights, residents from states as far south as Colorado, Kansas, Texas, and even Florida reported seeing faint auroras. While those sightings are rare, similar surprises could happen again if geomagnetic activity intensifies overnight.

Best Time and Tips for Viewing the Aurora

The northern lights are typically visible only when skies are dark and clear. Experts recommend looking up between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time — ideally within an hour or two of midnight. The best viewing direction is toward the northern horizon.

To improve your chances, move away from city lights, find a high or open area, and give your eyes about 15 minutes to adjust to the dark. Even if the lights are not visible to the naked eye, smartphone cameras with long-exposure or night modes may capture faint colors invisible in person.

Bottom line: If you’re in the northern half of the U.S., tonight could bring another chance to witness one of nature’s most beautiful light shows. Stay warm, find a dark spot, and keep your eyes on the sky.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Are the northern lights visible tonight?

Yes. NOAA forecasts show that geomagnetic activity tonight could make the northern lights visible across parts of the northern U.S. and even some central states.

Q2: Which U.S. states could see the aurora?

Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Vermont, and Maine are among the best locations to see it tonight.

Q3: Why can the northern lights be seen so far south?

Strong solar storms push charged particles deeper into Earth’s atmosphere, expanding the auroral oval toward lower latitudes. That’s why more states are seeing them this week.

Q4: What time should I look for the northern lights?

The best viewing time is generally between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, when skies are darkest and solar particles most active.

Q5: How can I increase my chances of seeing them?

Find a dark spot away from city lights, check the local weather for clear skies, and face north. Cameras with night mode can also help capture the glow.