Northern lights expected to dazzle viewers in Upper Midwest and Alaska

On Sunday night, July 27, 2025, the northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are predicted to be visible across certain areas of the northern United States and Alaska. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provided a Kp index rating of three out of nine for this evening, indicating a moderate chance for auroral activity, making the lights more brilliant and active. Sightings are expected particularly in states including North Dakota, parts of Montana, northern Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan's Upper Peninsula, and small areas of northeastern Washington and northern Idaho. In addition, Alaska is identified as a key location for viewing the aurora on this night. NOAA noted that the previous night, Saturday, the aurora was significantly more active owing to a geomagnetic storm, which increased the potential for stunning displays of the lights. While conditions may not have the same intensity as experienced the night before, visitors and stargazers in the northern regions are encouraged to observe the skies. The best viewing time for the aurora is anticipated between 10 PM and 2 AM, with peak brightness and activity around midnight. To enhance their chances of seeing the phenomenon, viewers are advised to seek locations further north and away from urban lights that contribute to light pollution. The celestial event coincides with the Piscis Austrinid meteor shower, peaking during the early hours of Monday morning, adding to the potential spectacle for sky watchers. Furthermore, the Southern Delta Aquariids meteor shower will be reaching its peak just days later, providing multiple opportunities for stargazing enthusiasts to witness extraordinary events. For those hoping to experience these natural wonders, this weekend offers a rare chance to observe both meteor showers and the captivating northern lights, making it an exciting time for astronomy enthusiasts in the regions mentioned. As the summer night sky clears, stargazers have the perfect blend of both phenomena to look forward to, combining enduring traditions of watching meteor showers with the hopes of glimpsing the magical northern lights that illuminate the night sky in beautiful colors. This convergence of natural events is not only a captivating spectacle but also sparks an increased interest in astronomy and the natural sciences in general as more people take an interest in celestial occurrences that have been admired for centuries.