Topline
Up to nine states in the northern U.S. may be able to see the northern lights Wednesday night, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which forecasts mild auroral activity and minor geomagnetic storm impacts.
People gather to watch the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, in New Brighton in northwest England late on May 10, 2024.
Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images
Key Facts
The aurora may be “quite pleasing” to look at for observers in the right areas, according to NOAA, which forecast a Kp index of four on its scale of nine.
NOAA has also forecast a minor geomagnetic storm, which can improve northern lights visibility at higher latitudes.
Auroral activity is forecast to increase tomorrow, according to NOAA, which forecasts a Kp index of five for Thursday night.
Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible?
Areas within Wednesday’s northern lights forecast include northeastern Washington, the northern tip of Idaho, northern Montana, North Dakota, the northernmost stretches of South Dakota, northern Minnesota, northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Chances to see the northern lights are even higher in Alaska and significantly increase the farther inland observers are in the state.
northern li
What’s The Best Way To See The Northern Lights?
High vantage points and places with little to no light pollution can improve chances of seeing the northern lights, which are usually best viewed between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.
What’s The Best Way To Photograph The Northern Lights?
Taking photos with low apertures and wide-angle lenses, if applicable, can help with photos of the aurora, as can tripods and night mode. Smartphone users should avoid using flash.
Key Background
The northern lights reached a 500-year high in 2024 when the sun reached the peak of its 11-year solar cycle. Scientists expect auroral activity to taper off significantly by 2027 as the sun gets farther from the peak.
Further Reading
Aurora Dashboard (NOAA)
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