Aurora watch! 10 states may see Northern Lights light up skies tonight—here's when to look up

Skywatchers across parts of the northern United States may have a chance to witness the northern lights on Friday night into early Saturday. According to the latest space weather forecast, a minor geomagnetic storm could make the aurora visible across as many as 10 states. Increased solar wind activity ties the expected display to shimmering lights on northern horizons in several regions.

A G1 (minor) geomagnetic storm is expected from April 10 into April 11, according to the forecast. Experts say the event is linked to a co-rotating interaction region, where a faster stream of solar wind from a hole in the sun’s corona catches up with slower-moving background solar wind. This interaction can strengthen geomagnetic activity around Earth and increase the chances of aurora visibility, as per a report by Forbes.

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Which states may see the northern lights?

The best chances are expected to occur across:

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

These areas may be able to see the aurora low on the northern horizon overnight Friday into Saturday. The forecast suggests Kp 5.33 levels, which are generally strong enough for a visible display in far northern states, as per a report by Forbes.

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Could the aurora move farther south?

A stronger G2-class storm is not currently forecast, but if conditions unexpectedly intensify, the lights could extend farther south, as per a report by Forbes.

In that case, possible viewing areas may include:

Oregon
Wyoming
Nebraska
Iowa
Illinois
Indiana
Ohio
New York
Vermont
New Hampshire

For now, however, the primary focus remains on the northern tier.

Why is this happening?

The northern lights form when charged particles from the sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field. Some of these particles travel along magnetic field lines toward the poles, where they collide with oxygen and nitrogen high in the atmosphere.

These collisions release energy in the form of glowing light, creating the familiar green and shifting aurora bands. Experts also note that the Bz component of the interplanetary magnetic field is especially important.

When Bz turns southward, solar energy can enter Earth’s magnetosphere more easily, often increasing the chances of visible aurora activity, as per a report by Forbes.

Where should people watch from?

• Dark skies remain the key to the best viewing.
• Urban light pollution can make the aurora difficult to spot, even during active geomagnetic conditions.
• The best approach is to travel 30 to 60 minutes away from city lights and look toward the northern sky. Lakeshores, open countryside, and dark-sky parks often provide the clearest views.
• Using dim red lights instead of bright flashlights can also help preserve night vision.

Friday night could offer a beautiful chance to catch the northern lights for skywatchers in the right locations.

FAQs

What type of storm is forecast?
A G1 minor geomagnetic storm.

When could the Northern lights be visible?
From Friday night into early Saturday morning.