Northern Lights Update: Here’s Where Aurora Borealis Can Be Viewed Tonight
by Antonio Pequeño IV · ForbesTopline
The Northern Lights can potentially be seen from several northern U.S. states Saturday night, according to a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration update, as space weather forecasters predict an increase in geomagnetic activity capable of triggering a strong aurora borealis.
Key Facts
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has forecast a KP index of seven for Saturday night, meaning those in the northern edge of the U.S. could possibly see the aurora while it becomes “quite bright and active.”
The agency also has a strong geomagnetic storm watch in effect that could lead to a larger viewing area for the Northern Lights.
The viewing line stretches as low as central Nebraska, with the likelihood of aurora increasing the farther north people are from the line.
The viewing line is forecast to move further north by Sunday night, which is currently predicted to have a lesser KP index forecast of five, providing a lower likelihood of visibility than Saturday.
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Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible Tonight?
States within or partially included in the view line include Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, the Dakotas, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Maine. Most regions within the states have a low likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights, though the upper edges of Montana, North Dakota and Minnesota have a much higher chance.
How Do You See The Northern Lights?
The hours between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. will mark the best potential viewing time for the Northern Lights. Those looking to catch a glimpse of the natural phenomenon should do so in areas with no light pollution and clear forecasts.
How Do You Photograph The Lights?
Night mode and longer exposure times on smartphones can help viewers grab photos of the Northern Lights, as well as an increase in camera exposure.
Key Background
Saturday’s favorable forecast comes after a relatively strong showing on Friday night, which was forecast to produce a strong geomagnetic storm and featured a KP index of five. Increases in solar activity have been seen over the last few months ahead of the anticipated peak of Solar Cycle 25, the sun’s 11-year solar cycle which is expected to crest somewhere between late 2024 and early 2026. The cycle is forecast to produce intensifying sunspots (115 to be exact) and increasing geomagnetic storms.