Which states are in Aurora Borealis alert list today? Full list

The NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center issued a geomagnetic storm alert for October 2. A G3 (strong) phase was observed earlier, with G1–G2 activity likely tonight. That puts parts of the northern United States in line to see the aurora. This guide lists the states and gives practical viewing tips.

The main driver is a fast solar wind stream from a coronal hole. It is pushing charged particles into Earth’s magnetic field. That interaction powers the northern lights and may expand visibility farther south than usual after dark.

States on today’s Aurora Borealis alert list

Forecasters expect elevated auroral activity into the evening and overnight. Based on NOAA’s latest aurora “view line” and day-of forecasts, the following states are at least partly within the visibility zone tonight:

• Alaska
• Washington
• Idaho
• Montana
• North Dakota
• South Dakota
• Minnesota
• Wisconsin
• Michigan
• New York
• Maine
• Wyoming

Conditions can change fast. If storm strength returns to G2 or above this evening, the auroral oval can dip farther south. In that scenario, limited visibility could reach parts of Vermont, northern Pennsylvania, northern Illinois, and pockets of the Upper Midwest and Pacific Northwest away from city lights. Cloud cover and light pollution remain the biggest local blockers.

NOAA reported G3 activity earlier today with high-speed solar wind continuing. A moderate peak during daytime hours lowered the odds for some regions. Even so, residual activity after sunset can still be enough for visible arcs or pillars near the northern horizon in dark-sky locations. Check the sky repeatedly, as auroras often arrive in bursts.

How to maximize your chances tonight

Pick a dark-sky site far from urban glow. Face north with a clear, low horizon. Arrive before full darkness and stay at least an hour. Many displays start faint, then brighten in waves.

The best local window is usually from about 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. But begin scanning as soon as twilight fades. Use night mode on your phone camera. Long exposures reveal faint greens and reds that eyes may miss at first. Dress warm and bring a tripod if you plan to shoot time-lapse.

Context and what could shift the view line

Today’s activity follows several nights of stronger-than-expected geomagnetic conditions. The equinox effect can make Earth’s magnetic field more responsive to solar wind. If the interplanetary magnetic field tilts south (negative Bz) for long stretches tonight, visibility improves. If it tilts north, the oval shrinks poleward.

Short term, power grid and radio users in northern latitudes sometimes see minor impacts under G2–G3 conditions. For most people, the outcome is a sky show. Longer term, we remain near the peak of the solar cycle. That means more frequent aurora chances into the season, weather permitting.

Bottom line: The Aurora Borealis alert list for tonight includes Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Maine, and Wyoming. Watch the northern horizon from a dark location, be patient, and re-check the sky often.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Which states are in the Aurora Borealis alert list tonight?

Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Maine, and Wyoming. Local weather and darkness still matter.

Q2: What time are the northern lights most visible?

Usually 10 p.m.–2 a.m. local time. Start looking as soon as it gets dark. Auroras can brighten quickly in short bursts.

Q3: Will the aurora reach farther south?

It is possible if storm strength holds at G2–G3 after dark. Then parts of Vermont, northern Pennsylvania, northern Illinois, and nearby regions could see low-horizon glows.

Q4: How strong is today’s storm?

NOAA observed G3 (strong) conditions earlier with G1–G2 likely tonight. Strength can rise or fall quickly depending on solar wind and magnetic field direction.

Q5: How can I improve my odds of seeing it?

Go to a dark area, face north, and stay patient. Use a tripod and night mode. Avoid car headlights and check the sky every few minutes.