Northern Lights Could Dazzle Skies Over 18 States Tonight
A spectacular display of the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) may light up the skies across 18 U.S. states tonight, thanks to a strong solar storm. NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center confirms this rare event could bring the celestial phenomenon as far south as Virginia and Illinois.
Why Are the Northern Lights Visible So Far South?
The Aurora Borealis occurs when solar particles collide with Earth’s atmosphere, creating stunning green, pink, and purple light displays. A recent coronal mass ejection (CME) has triggered a G3 (Strong) geomagnetic storm, expanding the aurora’s visibility beyond its usual Arctic range.
Which States Could See the Aurora Tonight?
NOAA forecasts potential visibility in these 18 states (weather permitting):
- Northwest & West: Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana
- Midwest: North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio
- Northeast: New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine
- Surprise Appearance: Virginia
Best Time & Tips for Viewing the Aurora
- When? 10 PM – 2 AM local time, with peak activity around midnight.
- Where? Dark, open areas away from city lights (parks, countryside).
- How?
- Face north (use a compass app).
- Let your eyes adjust for 20+ minutes.
- Use a camera on long exposure to capture faint colors.
Will There Be More Chances to See the Lights?
Solar activity remains high, so additional aurora sightings are possible in the coming days. Apps like My Aurora Forecast or NOAA’s SWPC alerts can help track real-time updates.
Don’t Miss This Rare Sight!
With the 2025 solar maximum approaching, such events may become more common. Tonight could be your best chance to see the Northern Lights without leaving the U.S.—so bundle up and look north!
Share your photos and sightings with #USNorthernLights!
