A rare opportunity to witness the northern lights is unfolding across the United States tonight, as geomagnetic activity remains elevated following recent solar storms. According to NOAA forecasts, a G1 geomagnetic storm is expected, with the Kp index predicted to reach or higher—a threshold that often brings aurora sightings well beyond the usual polar regions.
Best viewing prospects tonight include northern states such as Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Washington, and Maine, as well as parts of Idaho, Wyoming, Iowa, New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire Rural areas far from city lights and with a clear view of the northern horizon will offer the highest chances of seeing the aurora.
The optimal time to look for the northern lights is between p.m. and a.m. local time, when skies are darkest and geomagnetic activity typically peaks Conditions can change rapidly, so monitoring real-time aurora maps and the Kp index is recommended for the latest updates.
While the intensity of the display can be unpredictable, tonight’s solar wind conditions and recent coronal mass ejections have created a promising setup for a memorable aurora event. If skies are clear in your area, keep an eye out for shimmering green, purple, or red lights dancing across the northern sky.
