If you’ve ever wanted to witness the northern lights without hopping on a flight to Iceland or Alaska, this weekend might be your chance. Thanks to elevated solar activity, the aurora borealis could be visible across 15 U.S. states this weekend, painting the night sky in waves of green, purple, and pink.
The NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center and the University of Alaska have both issued forecasts that show promising auroral activity stretching unusually far south.
Which States Could See the Northern Lights?
If the skies stay clear and the solar winds stay strong, these states could be in for a rare northern lights show this weekend:
- North Dakota
- South Dakota
- Montana
- Idaho
- Washington
- Iowa
- Minnesota
- Michigan
- Wisconsin
- New York
- Vermont
- New Hampshire
- Maine
- Oregon
- Wyoming
If you live in or near these states, now’s the time to plan a late-night stargazing session.
Why Now? The Kp-Index Is the Key
The magic number you’ll want to know is the Kp-index. This is a scale from 0 to 9 used to measure geomagnetic activity, essentially, how much Earth’s magnetic field is being disturbed by incoming solar particles.
According to NOAA, this weekend’s Kp-index is expected to peak at 4.67, enough to potentially push auroral visibility farther south than usual. The higher the Kp value, the farther from the poles the aurora can be seen. A reading above 5 is considered a geomagnetic storm.
Check NOAA’s 3-day Aurora Forecast here to see updated visibility maps and ideal viewing times.
What Causes the Northern Lights, Anyway?
The northern lights are caused by solar storms, which send charged particles hurtling toward Earth. These particles collide with gases in our atmosphere, mostly oxygen and nitrogen, causing a dazzling light display high above us.
But it’s not just about pretty lights. Earth’s magnetic field acts as a shield, protecting us from most of these charged particles. When the solar wind is strong enough to disturb the magnetic field, the result is a stunning show of color in the night sky.
Fun fact: in 1958, during a particularly intense geomagnetic storm, the aurora was visible as far south as Mexico City, according to the University of Alaska.
Best Tips to Spot the Aurora
- Go north: The further north you are in your state, the better your chances.
- Head away from city lights: Light pollution kills aurora visibility.
- Check the skies between 10 PM and 2 AM: That’s the peak window for auroral activity.
- Use an aurora tracker app: Apps like My Aurora Forecast or AuroraWatch give real-time updates based on your location.
- Watch the weather: Clear skies are crucial. Cloud cover can block the view even during high auroral activity.
Why This Weekend Matters
We’re currently entering a period of heightened solar activity, known as Solar Cycle 25, which is expected to peak in 2025. That means auroral events like this one may become more common, but still not guaranteed.
This weekend’s forecast might be one of the last, best chances in 2025 to catch the lights in the lower 48 states without special travel plans.
PAA: People Also Ask
Can you see the aurora borealis in the U.S.?
Yes! While it’s most commonly seen in Alaska, strong solar storms can make the aurora visible in northern U.S. states like Montana, Michigan, and New York.
What time is best to see the northern lights?
The best window is between 10 PM and 2 AM local time, though they can appear as early as sunset or as late as dawn during intense storms.
Do you need special equipment to see the aurora?
Nope, just your eyes and a dark sky. A good camera or smartphone with night mode can help capture it, but nothing beats seeing it in real life.
What color are the northern lights?
They’re usually green, but depending on the particles and atmospheric gases involved, you might also see purple, pink, red, or even white.
Don’t Miss It
If you’re in one of the lucky states on the list, don’t waste this opportunity to see the northern lights this weekend. Charge your phone, grab a blanket, and get outside. These magical light shows are fleeting, but unforgettable.
- Aurora Alert! 15 U.S. States Could See the Northern Lights This Weekend - June 1, 2025
- Weather Update: Severe Storms and Tornadoes Impact the U.S. Today - March 16, 2025
- More Extreme Weather Expected Across U.S. This Weekend - March 15, 2025
