Aurora alert: Northern lights could dazzle 15 states tonight as solar storms intensify — Here’s when and how to watch them

Tonight, skywatchers across the U.S. have a rare opportunity to witness the northern lights that may glow far beyond their typical Arctic territory. Forecasters report that an unusual combination of swift solar winds and an approaching coronal mass ejection (CME) could push the aurora deep into the United States, providing residents in several regions the chance to witness the colorful spectacle.

Why Auroras Are Expected Tonight

According to NOAA’s recent forecast, “Two factors could cause geomagnetic storms this week, forecasters said.” The initial factor is high-speed solar winds streaming from cooler, less dense areas of the Sun called coronal holes. These winds are anticipated to reach Earth from Wednesday.


The second is the expected arrival of a coronal mass ejection, explained as a burst of plasma and magnetic field that comes from the Sun’s corona, the outer layer of its atmosphere. When this material collides into Earth’s magnetic field, it can cause geomagnetic storms capable of improving auroras and extending them farther south than normal.

NOAA currently predicts a 75% chance of minor to moderate G1–G2 storms, strong enough to brighten the aurora and make it observable across a much broader stretch of the country.

Forecasters also state that a “25% chance the space weather triggers G3 level storms for ‘isolated periods,’” which could push the lights as far south as Illinois or Oregon if conditions align.

States Most Likely to See the Northern Lights

If the forecast holds, the aurora could be seen as soon as darkness falls. On Wednesday night, optimal viewing conditions span across much of the northern U.S.

Expected visibility regions:

Alaska

North Dakota

Minnesota

Montana

Wisconsin

Michigan

South Dakota

Idaho

Maine

Vermont

New Hampshire

Washington

Wyoming

Iowa

New York

NOAA’s view line indicates that even states farther south have a opportunity if the storm intensifies.

When Skywatchers Should Look Up

NOAA’s three-day outlook identifies the best windows for geomagnetic activity:

• 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. EST: Moderate G2 storming possible
  
• 7 p.m. – 1 a.m. EST: Minor G1 storming possible
  
• 1 a.m. – 4 a.m. EST: Extra chances for auroral activity
  

These time frames give skywatchers several chances throughout the evening and early morning.

A Reminder: Auroras Are Never Guaranteed

Experts indicate that the aurora can be unpredictable, citing “auroras can be fickle creatures.” Even with strong forecasts, visibility relies on whether the solar wind stream and CME come together and whether skies remain clear. Sometimes conditions strengthen and auroras reach farther south than anticipated. Other times, skywatchers may encounter a “nothing burger” and no visible lights at all.

FAQs;

1. What causes the northern lights?

The northern lights happen when solar particles interact with Earth’s magnetic field. This reaction generates glowing colors in the night sky.

2. When is the best time to see auroras?

Auroras are generally intense late at night. Experts suggest watching between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.