Anticipated Northern Lights Phenomenon in Over a Dozen U.S. States

Experience the captivating beauty of the northern lights as they illuminate the night sky in more than a dozen U.S. states this week. A solar storm of significant magnitude has been forecasted, allowing these mesmerizing lights, also known as aurora borealis, to be visible across 17 states, including Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and Maryland. Parts of Canada will also have the opportunity to witness this natural phenomenon.

The best conditions for viewing the northern lights are during clear nights, between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, and away from the light pollution of cities. The NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center provides further guidance on the ideal viewing times.

These lights can be seen up to 600 miles away, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center. The intensity of the lights may vary based on geographical location, with those closer to the horizon experiencing a more subtle display.

Auroras occur when electrons from space interact with Earth’s upper atmosphere along its magnetic field lines, creating a captivating ring or oval-shaped glow of light. Similar to neon lights, these collisions produce a stunning array of colors.

While the northern lights are commonly seen in places like Alaska, Canada, and Scandinavian countries, this event provides a rare opportunity for viewers in the U.S. and Europe to witness this natural spectacle. According to the Geophysical Institute, sunspot activity, which influences auroral activity, is expected to reach its peak in 2025.

The last visible occurrence of the northern lights in the U.S. was in April, spanning across 30 states following a solar flare on the sun.