Topline
The northern lights may make an appearance in up to 10 states Wednesday night, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which forecasts mild auroral activity along the northern U.S. border.
Kp5 and above intensity northern lights (aurora borealis) appear in the sky over autumn trees as it lit up the sky in shades of green in Anchorage, Alaska, United States on September 29, 2025.
Photo by Hasan Akbas/Anadolu via Getty Images
Key Facts
NOAA issued a Kp index of five for Wednesday night, meaning the aurora may be “quite pleasing” to look at for observers in the right places.
No geomagnetic storm impacts, which can strengthen northern lights showings, are forecast for Wednesday night.
If forecasts hold, there will be extremely limited auroral activity by Thursday night, where about three states will have a shot at seeing the northern lights.
Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible?
NOAA’s forecast map shows the northern lights may be visible in areas such as northern Washington, the northern tip of Idaho, much of Montana, the Wyoming-Montana border, North Dakota, northern South Dakota, northern Minnesota, northern Wisconsin, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and northern Michigan. As usual, Alaska will have a higher chance of seeing the northern lights than the lower 48.
Wednesday night’s aurora forecast.
NOAA
What’s The Best Way To See The Northern Lights?
Observers should try to view the northern lights between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. High vantage points and areas with little to no light pollution can also help with viewing. Less moonlight can help visibility, though Wednesday’s moon will be 91% illuminated.
What’s The Best Way To Photograph The Northern Lights?
Smartphone users should avoid flash and use night mode, while people with traditional cameras should use wide-angle lenses, tripods for image stability and low apertures.
Key Background
Northern lights activity has tapered off since 2024, when auroral showings reached a 500-year high as the sun reached the peak of its 11-year solar cycle. Auroral activity is expected to lessen the more time passes from the peak, meaning 2026 could be one of the best opportunities to get a look at the phenomenon.
Further Reading
Aurora Dashboard (NOAA)
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