Northern Lights Forecast: Geomagnetic Storm May Cause Aurora Borealis To Be Visible In These States Tonight
Posted on 10/11/2024
Topline
A swath of states in the northern U.S. could get another chance to see the northern lights Friday night, according to a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecast, after a geomagnetic storm brought the aurora borealis farther south.
Key Facts
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Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible?
A section of the northern U.S. is forecast to have a higher chance of viewing the aurora, including Alaska and northern sections of Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Several other states have a lower likelihood of seeing the northern lights, including Montana, South Dakota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine.
What’s The Best Way To See The Northern Lights?
NOAA encourages viewers to watch from a high vantage point, like a hill, while the optimal time to see the aurora borealis is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. in areas with little to no light pollution.
What’s The Best Way To Photograph The Northern Lights?
Smartphones can pick up the aurora even if the naked eye can’t see it. Visit Iceland, Iceland’s tourism website, advises turning on night mode to increase smartphone camera exposure.
Key Background
Solar Cycle 25—an 11-year cycle the sun began in 2019—has increased the likelihood of states being able to view the aurora borealis phenomenon. An increase in sunspots and geomagnetic storms—caused by a burst of energy and particles released by the sun—contribute to stronger aurora forecasts. The cycle is expected to peak between late 2024 and early 2026, according to NASA, meaning northern lights sightings will continue throughout next year. Though the peak has yet to happen, the sun’s activity has been busier than anticipated and there will likely be more geomagnetic storms leading up to 2026, scientists say.
Further Reading
ForbesIn Photos: See Jaw-Dropping Northern Lights Across Planet On Historic Night
A swath of states in the northern U.S. could get another chance to see the northern lights Friday night, according to a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecast, after a geomagnetic storm brought the aurora borealis farther south.
Key Facts
Get Forbes Breaking News Text Alerts: We’re launching text message alerts so you'll always know the biggest stories shaping the day’s headlines. Text “Alerts” to (201) 335-0739 or sign up here.
Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible?
A section of the northern U.S. is forecast to have a higher chance of viewing the aurora, including Alaska and northern sections of Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Several other states have a lower likelihood of seeing the northern lights, including Montana, South Dakota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine.
What’s The Best Way To See The Northern Lights?
NOAA encourages viewers to watch from a high vantage point, like a hill, while the optimal time to see the aurora borealis is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. in areas with little to no light pollution.
What’s The Best Way To Photograph The Northern Lights?
Smartphones can pick up the aurora even if the naked eye can’t see it. Visit Iceland, Iceland’s tourism website, advises turning on night mode to increase smartphone camera exposure.
Key Background
Solar Cycle 25—an 11-year cycle the sun began in 2019—has increased the likelihood of states being able to view the aurora borealis phenomenon. An increase in sunspots and geomagnetic storms—caused by a burst of energy and particles released by the sun—contribute to stronger aurora forecasts. The cycle is expected to peak between late 2024 and early 2026, according to NASA, meaning northern lights sightings will continue throughout next year. Though the peak has yet to happen, the sun’s activity has been busier than anticipated and there will likely be more geomagnetic storms leading up to 2026, scientists say.
Further Reading
ForbesIn Photos: See Jaw-Dropping Northern Lights Across Planet On Historic Night
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