Northern lights may illuminate 14 U.S. states tonight

The Northern Lights, also known as aurora borealis, may be visible across parts of the United States due to a geomagnetic storm forecasted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Space Weather Prediction Center. On June 25, 2025, the agency predicted a G2-level geomagnetic storm, placing 14 northern states in a favorable position for aurora visibility. The storm is caused by increased solar activity linked to a coronal hole in the sun, allowing streams of solar wind to reach Earth. In the U.S., states that could potentially witness this natural light display include parts of Alaska, Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, Maine, Michigan, Wisconsin, Vermont, New Hampshire, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, New York, and South Dakota, with Alaska offering the highest likelihood of visibility. Areas far from light pollution are expected to provide the best viewing experiences. The auroras are formed through interactions between charged particles released by solar wind and Earth’s atmosphere, specifically gas molecules like oxygen and nitrogen. When these energetic particles collide with atmospheric gases, they emit light in multiple colors, creating the mesmerizing natural phenomenon of the northern lights. Such occurrences are typically seen closer to the magnetic poles, but during periods of heightened solar activity, as is the case presently, viewers further south may also have a chance to experience them. As we are currently in a solar maximum period, which is expected to last until at least 2026, such opportunities may become more frequent in the coming years. The forecast model from NOAA indicates a Kp index value of 5, suggesting a moderate level of geomagnetic activity that could generate visually engaging auroras visible during nighttime hours. For optimal viewing conditions, it is advised to seek locations away from the city lights and to have a clear northern view. The best time to observe the auroras is typically during the night, especially between 10 PM and 2 AM local time. As visibility will depend on several factors including the severity of solar wind activity and local weather conditions, potential viewers are encouraged to stay informed through real-time updates provided by NOAA and apps that track aurora activity. The excitement surrounding this prospect draws attention not only from skywatchers in the region but also from those interested in astronomy and natural phenomena, reinforcing the allure of the northern lights that continues to captivate people around the world.