Some States May See Aurora Borealis Thursday

Topline

An “isolated” period of geomagnetic storms is likely to disrupt Earth’s magnetic field late Thursday, as several states could have a chance to see the northern lights, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

An “isolated” period of “moderate” geomagnetic storms is expected through early Friday, forecasters … More said.

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Key Facts

NOAA forecast a Kp index of four on a scale of nine for Thursday night, indicating the northern lights will be more active away from the poles and be “quite pleasing to look at” for those in the right areas.

Some “minor” geomagnetic storms occurred early Thursday, and there’s a chance for an “isolated” and “moderate” storming period late Thursday and early Friday because of the effects of a colder, less dense spot on the sun’s surface, NOAA said.

Auroral activity will likely be calmer Friday and Saturday, according to NOAA’s three-day forecast, with a maximum Kp index of about three forecast for both days.

Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible?

Alaska is forecast with a higher chance of seeing the northern lights on Thursday once the sun sets in the state. A lesser chance is forecast across northern Montana, North Dakota, northern Minnesota and Upper Michigan, while a lower, yet possible likelihood is expected in parts of Washington, northern Idaho, South Dakota, Wisconsin and Maine. (See map below.)

Thursday’s view line.

NOAA

What’s The Best Way To See The Northern Lights?

The best time to see the northern lights is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, according to NOAA, which recommends traveling north to a high vantage point away from light pollution. If weather conditions are optimal, the aurora borealis could be visible even if geomagnetic activity is calmer, NOAA said.

What’s The Best Way To Photograph The Northern Lights?

A photography expert told National Geographic it’s best to use a wide-angle lens, an aperture or F-stop of four or lower and a tripod to stabilize the image. With a smartphone, NOAA recommends enabling night mode and disabling flash.

Key Background

The northern lights have been more visible over the last year after activity on the sun’s surface reached a “solar maximum.” This peak, occurring throughout the sun’s 11-year cycle, marks an increase in solar events like solar flares and coronal mass ejections. The latest “solar maximum” surpassed projections by NOAA and NASA, which suggested the northern lights displays hit a 500-year peak. Stronger auroral displays will likely continue through early 2026 as the “solar maximum” is maintained, the agencies said.