Aurora Borealis Forecast: Northern Lights May Glow Over 15 States Tonight

The northern lights could shine across much of the northern United States tonight. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a forecast showing aurora activity reaching as far south as Iowa. The glow is expected due to geomagnetic storms caused by high-speed solar winds.

The display may also be visible Saturday night and early Sunday morning. NOAA said this is linked to a coronal mass ejection that left the sun’s surface on September 4. People in parts of the Midwest and Northeast could have a rare chance to see the colorful sky.

Aurora Borealis Forecast: States With Best Viewing Chances

NOAA set the Kp index at five on a scale of nine for tonight. That level often brings auroras far south of Canada. According to the agency, the best chance will be in Alaska and northern Canada.

In the U.S., lights may be seen in Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Viewing will depend on cloud cover and local weather. For the best view, experts advise finding a dark, high spot away from city lights. The best time is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time.

Why The Aurora Borealis Is More Active Now

Auroras form when particles from the sun hit Earth’s magnetic field. These particles collide with oxygen and nitrogen, which then release energy as colorful light. Green and purple are the most common colors.

Solar activity has been stronger in recent years and will likely remain high through 2026. NASA and NOAA expect more solar flares and geomagnetic storms during this period. That means more nights of aurora activity across North America. Last year saw one of the brightest displays in 500 years, visible as far south as Texas and Florida.

Tips For Watching And Photographing The Lights

To see the aurora, go to a dark area with a clear northern horizon. Avoid city lights and check local weather conditions. Patience is important, as displays can come and go quickly.

For photos, experts suggest a wide-angle lens, an aperture of f/4 or less, and manual focus set to infinity. On a smartphone, use night mode and a tripod. Disable the flash for best results.

Aurora borealis forecast shows a rare chance for many states tonight. The northern lights are one of nature’s most stunning displays. If skies are clear, millions may witness the glow.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What states are included in the aurora borealis forecast tonight?

NOAA says lights may be seen in Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

Q2: What time is best to watch the northern lights?

The best viewing time is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time. Clear skies and dark areas away from light pollution are needed.

Q3: Why are northern lights more common now?

Solar activity is higher than usual. More solar flares and coronal mass ejections are hitting Earth’s atmosphere, creating stronger auroras.

Q4: How can I take good photos of the aurora?

Use a tripod, a wide-angle lens, and a low aperture setting. On phones, use night mode, turn off the flash, and keep the camera steady.

Q5: Will auroras be visible again this weekend?

Yes, NOAA expects activity Saturday night and early Sunday morning. More minor to moderate geomagnetic storms are forecast.