Northern Lights Forecast: Aurora Borealis Could Appear In These States Tonight

Topline

A selection of states in the northern U.S. will have an opportunity to see the northern lights on Tuesday night, following a recent geomagnetic storm that pulled the phenomenon further south, according to a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecast.

Key Facts

NOAA forecast a Kp index of four on a scale of nine for Tuesday night, indicating likely heightened auroral activity away from the North Pole that can be “quite pleasing to look at” for those in the right area.

Auroral activity will likely decrease through Thursday as no geomagnetic storm conditions are expected, according to NOAA’s three-day forecast, though there is a “slight chance” for minor solar radiation that could cause power grid fluctuations and have a minor impact on satellite operations.

Moderate geomagnetic storm conditions were observed over the weekend, shortly after a strong solar flare erupted from the sun’s surface.

Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible?

Northern Canada and Alaska have a higher likelihood of viewing aurora borealis, with a view line—marking a minimal chance of seeing the northern lights—sweeping below the Canadian border and into some Midwest states. Areas of northern Montana, North Dakota and Minnesota have a low chance of viewing aurora borealis, while parts of Washington, northern Idaho, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Michigan and Maine will have a lower likelihood. (See viewing line below.)

What’s The Best Way To See The Northern Lights?

NOAA recommends traveling to a high vantage point away from light pollution to see the northern lights, which become visible between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time.

What’s The Best Way To Photograph The Northern Lights?

The northern lights can be captured with a smartphone and are best photographed with night mode turned on with a lower shutter speed, according to Iceland’s tourism website. Adobe recommends setting the focus to the farthest possible setting with a wide aperture, low shutter speed and high ISO value if using a regular camera.

Key Background

There will be more sun spots and coronal mass ejections on the sun’s surface as activity reaches a “solar maximum,” according to NASA. This peak in activity will cause aurora borealis to become more visible to more people below the Canadian border, and will likely continue through 2025 and into early 2026. Meteor showers and other celestial events have also appeared in the night sky in recent weeks, including the recent Taurids meteor showers known for their slower movement and long-lasting streaks. This year’s last supermoon—becoming about 30% brighter and appearing 14% larger than the average moon—is also expected to appear this week.

Further Reading