Northern Lights Forecast: Aurora Borealis Could Be Visible In These States Tonight
The northernmost states may be able to see the aurora borealis again Thursday night, as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasts minor geomagnetic storms are likely to occur.
Key Facts
Where Will Northern Lights Be Visible Tonight?Alaska has the highest likelihood of aurora visibility and is the only state to be in the red zone, indicating high likelihood of an aurora, according to NOAA's forecast (see map below). States with a lower opportunity to see an aurora include parts of Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota and Michigan. Other states forecasted to be along the aurora's view line, with a smaller chance to see an aurora, include South Dakota, Wisconsin and Maine.
When Are The Northern Lights Visible?The lights are best viewed when it is dark outside between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, according to the NOAA . The NOAA recommends avoiding light pollution, traveling as far north as possible and finding a high vantage point.
How Can I Photograph The Northern Lights?The lights can be photographed with a smartphone and can be best captured without flash, a lower shutter speed and by using night mode, if using an iPhone.
Key BackgroundSolar activity is reaching a peak as NASA says the sun is reaching its "solar maximum"—the most active part of its 11-year cycle, during which the sun is the most active and stormy. NASA says the solar maximum may continue over the next year. NASA said solar storms observed in May were the strongest in two decades and produced possibly the strongest auroras observed in 500 years. Solar activity has exceeded scientists' predictions throughout the current solar cycle, which began in December 2019.
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