Key Highlights
- Northern lights may light up skies across 18 U.S. states tonight as a coronal mass ejection approaches Earth.
- Auroras are predicted to be visible in Alaska, North Dakota, Minnesota, Montana, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Michigan, Idaho, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Washington, Iowa, Oregon, New York, Wyoming, Nebraska, and Illinois.
- The best viewing times are expected between 10 p.m. – 4 a.m. EST (0300-0900 GMT) as minor to moderate geomagnetic storm conditions could occur.
- For the best chance of seeing auroras, find a north-facing vantage point with clear skies and no light pollution.
Northern Lights May Light Up Skies Across 18 U.S. States Tonight
The northern lights may grace the skies across 18 states in the United States tonight, as a coronal mass ejection (CME) from the sun is expected to disrupt Earth’s magnetic field and trigger geomagnetic storm conditions.
Forecasting the Aurora Show
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC), an incoming CME could deliver a blow to Earth as early as late January 2 or in the early hours of January 3, based on forecasts from the U.K. Met Office.
If this forecast holds true, minor (G1) to moderate (G2) geomagnetic storm conditions are anticipated, which increases the likelihood of seeing auroras at mid-latitudes.
Where Can You See the Northern Lights?
The following 18 U.S. states could potentially catch a glimpse of the northern lights tonight: Alaska, North Dakota, Minnesota, Montana, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Michigan, Idaho, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Washington, Iowa, Oregon, New York, Wyoming, Nebraska, and Illinois.
However, auroras can be very fickle. While the list is based on current forecast data at the time of publication, if conditions strengthen, northern lights could reach much farther south than expected. Equally, if they don’t align, no auroras may be visible at all.
When to Look for the Northern Lights
The best times to look for the northern lights are between 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. EST (2100-0300 GMT) when minor geomagnetic storm conditions are possible, and from 10 p.m. – 4 a.m. EST (0300-0900 GMT) when moderate geomagnetic storm conditions could occur.
To increase your chances of spotting the auroras, find a north-facing vantage point with clear skies and no light pollution.
Use your phone camera first to scan the sky for signs of auroras, as they can be very faint at first. Additionally, let your eyes adapt to the dark for at least 30 minutes before looking up.
Preparing for the Aurora Chasers
If you live in one of these states and are eager to catch a glimpse of the northern lights, it’s essential to prepare properly. Wear warm clothing as part of the fun of aurora hunting involves staying outside for hours if conditions look promising.
Download an app like “My Aurora Forecast & Alerts” or “Space Weather Live,” which will provide you with forecasts based on your location and help gauge whether space weather conditions are favorable for sightings. These tools can be a game-changer in your aurora chasing experience!
In conclusion, tonight may present a unique opportunity to witness the northern lights from locations that typically do not see them. Stay tuned, keep an eye on the sky, and prepare yourself for what could be a mesmerizing display of nature’s beauty.
