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Tonight Could Be Magical as Northern Lights Dance Across These 13 US States
A rare geomagnetic storm could light up the skies across much of the northern US tonight—here’s how, when, and where to catch the aurora borealis spectacle.
Tonight might just be one for the books. According to a fresh update from NOAA‘s Space Weather Prediction Center, parts of the United States could be treated to a breathtaking display of the aurora borealis—better known as the northern lights. A geomagnetic disturbance triggered by a recent solar flare and dual coronal mass ejections is expected to push the auroral oval deep into North America, making it possible for 13 states to witness the celestial show.
The Kp index, which measures geomagnetic activity on a scale from 0 to 9, is projected to reach 4.67, with an outside chance of hitting G3-level storms. While Monday night witnessed some of the most intense solar activity in recent times, forecasters say tonight—Tuesday, June 4th—still holds strong potential, albeit with slightly reduced intensity. Space weather experts, including those from the U.K. Met Office, speculate that minor to moderate activity could still push the lights into view for millions across the northern United States.
Where Will the Northern Lights Be Visible Tonight?
If you’re lucky enough to live in Alaska, Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, Wisconsin, or the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, you’re in prime territory. Other states like South Dakota, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon are also listed as likely candidates for visibility, depending on how strong the geomagnetic activity turns out to be.
On Monday, the view line extended unusually far south—as low as southern Nebraska and northern Missouri, with even states like Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Massachusetts catching glimpses. While tonight’s projection isn’t expected to dip quite as low, experts advise remaining alert, as auroras are notoriously unpredictable.
Best Time and Tips for Viewing the Aurora
The ideal window for viewing is between 10 PM and 2 AM local time, when the skies are darkest. For the clearest sightlines, head to elevated locations away from city lights and look north. Apps like “My Aurora Forecast & Alerts” and “Space Weather Live” can provide real-time updates based on your GPS location.
Capturing the Magic
To photograph the northern lights, NASA recommends night mode, long exposure, and using a tripod for your smartphone. DSLR users should opt for a wide-angle lens, a low F-stop (≤ f/4), and a steady mount. Even if your eyes can’t catch the full detail, your camera lens might surprise you.
Why Now? A Surge in Solar Activity
This year marks a significant moment in the sun’s 11-year solar cycle, known as the solar maximum, which began ramping up in 2024 and is expected to peak through early 2026. These solar flares and ejections release charged particles that interact with Earth’s magnetic field, sparking auroras. With this heightened solar activity, these luminous shows may become more frequent and more visible across the United States in the coming months.
So whether you’re a seasoned skywatcher or a curious first-timer, tonight could be your golden opportunity to experience the awe-inspiring phenomenon that many travel halfway across the world to witness. Don’t miss it—look up, and let the sky surprise you.