Northern Lights Forecast Update: Here’s Where Aurora Borealis May Appear Tonight Amid ‘Solar Maximum’
Tonight, the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, may be visible across several regions in the U.S. and Canada due to ongoing solar activity. Here’s a summary of the forecast:
Visibility Areas: The aurora is expected to be visible in parts of northern New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine on the East Coast. In the Midwest, areas of Idaho, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin may also experience sightings1.
Conditions for Viewing: Optimal viewing conditions include dark, clear skies away from artificial light. The best times to see the aurora are shortly after sunset or just before sunrise
Solar Activity Influence: The recent visibility of the aurora is linked to heightened solar activity as we approach solar maximum in the sun's 11-year cycle, resulting in increased geomagnetic storms
Geomagnetic Storms: Although the intensity of geomagnetic storms has decreased since Thursday's spectacular displays, there remains a chance for auroras tonight due to residual activity
Viewing Distance: Under ideal conditions, the aurora can be seen from up to 620 miles away from its center; however, it will appear on the northern horizon
Forecast Models: Predictions are based on models that assess geomagnetic activity levels (Kp index), which indicate how far south the aurora might be visible
Future Opportunities: While tonight may offer a chance to see the lights, continued solar activity suggests more opportunities for aurora sightings in the coming days