Northern Lights Forecast: Here’s Where Aurora Borealis Can Be Seen Tonight
Topline
A group of northern U.S. states may be able to get a look at the northern lights Wednesday night, with forecasters predicting a continuation of Tuesday’s geomagnetic activity that produced a decent shot at viewing the aurora borealis.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasts a Kp index of four on Wednesday and Thursday night, meaning auroral activity will move further from the poles and produce more auroral movement and formations.
Wednesday’s viewing line drops as far south as South Dakota, with chances to see the northern lights increasing the farther north people are located from the line.
Forecasters are watching for a minor geomagnetic storm, which traditionally makes the aurora visible at higher latitudes that include states like Maine and Michigan.
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Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible Thursday Night?
Areas within the boundaries of NOAA’s viewing line include northern Washington, northern Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, northern South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, northern Michigan and northern Maine, in addition to most of Canada and Alaska (see below).
How Can You Watch The Northern Lights?
Those looking to view the natural phenomenon should plan to do so between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., the prime viewing window for the northern lights. Viewers will also want to be in areas with as little light pollution as possible and clear skies.
How Can You Photograph The Lights?
The night mode feature on most smartphones should be used when trying to photograph the aurora. Low shutter speeds and wide apertures will also give viewers a better chance at getting a good photo.
Key Background
Chances to view the northern lights have remained relatively consistent in the last few months, as NASA announced in October the sun reached a solar maximum period. The designation from NASA means the sun experienced an increase in sunspots and coronal mass ejections, which are associated with increased aurora
