Tonight’s Northern Lights Forecast: Discover 8 States Where You Might Witness the Enchanting Aurora Borealis!

This Sunday night, people in eight northern U.S. states might get a chance to see the northern lights! The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has shared a forecast, indicating a mild viewing opportunity even without any geomagnetic storms.

The aurora borealis, commonly known as the northern lights, glows when particles from the sun collide with Earth’s atmosphere. This interaction creates stunning light displays. For this Sunday, the Kp index is set at three on a scale of nine, suggesting that, in the right spot, viewers can expect a delightful show.

Currently, areas that might witness this celestial event include Alaska, North Dakota, and parts of Washington, Idaho, Montana, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan. It’s best to find a dark, open area facing north to catch the full spectacle, especially between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. when activity peaks.

Interest in the northern lights has surged recently, due in part to the sun nearing the peak of its 11-year solar cycle. Historical patterns show that solar maximums typically lead to increased auroral activity. Interestingly, recent forecasts have even predicted Kp index values soaring to six, allowing parts of the U.S. to view the aurora. For comparison, during the last solar maximum in 2014, displays were so vivid that many people across the Midwest reported seeing the lights.

If you want to photograph this dazzling phenomenon, adjusting your smartphone’s settings to night mode is helpful. For DSLR users, a wide-angle lens paired with a sturdy tripod will yield the best results.

For ongoing updates about the northern lights and more insights into space weather, you can check out the NOAA’s official website.

Check out this related article: Unlocking Yellowstone’s Secrets: How a Researcher Uses Vibrations to Explore the Magma Chamber