Topline
A considerable number of northern U.S. states have a shot at seeing the northern lights Wednesday night, according to an upgraded forecast from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which is predicting auroral activity to increase even further by Thursday.
Wednesday’s Kp index was upgraded to five by NOAA. (Photo by Ian Forsyth/Getty Images)
Getty Images
Key Facts
A Kp index of five was issued for Wednesday night, setting the stage for more active auroral activity that can be “quite pleasing to look at” for viewers in the right places, according to NOAA.
NOAA’s curved viewing line reaches as far south as the northern edge of Iowa, with chances of seeing the aurora borealis generally increasing the farther north observers are from the line.
If NOAA’s forecast holds, Thursday could bring an even higher chance of seeing the northern lights as a Kp index of seven has been issued for tomorrow night, meaning the aurora “will become quite bright and active,” according to NOAA.
Get Forbes Breaking News Text Alerts: We’re launching text message alerts so you’ll always know the biggest stories shaping the day’s headlines. Text “Alerts” to (201) 335-0739 or sign up here.
Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible?
States within Wednesday’s viewing line (see map below) include Alaska, northern Washington, northern Idaho, Montana, the northern edge of Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, the northern edge of Iowa, Wisconsin, the Michigan Upper Peninsula, northern parts of the Michigan Lower Peninsula, far northern New York, northern Vermont, northern New Hampshire and northern Maine.
Wednesday’s viewing line.
NOAA
What’s The Best Way To See The Northern Lights?
Viewers should try to observe the lights from places with little to no light pollution and between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. to get the best view of the lights. High vantage points and little to no moonlight can also help visibility.
What’s The Best Way To Photograph The Northern Lights?
Smartphone users should avoid night mode or flash when trying to get photos of the northern lights. Tripods and low apertures can help observers get good photos, in addition to wide-angle lenses on traditional cameras.
Key Background
Scientists have predicted the above-average auroral activity that has been present throughout 2024 and 2025 will continue into next year thanks to the sun reaching the peak of its 11-year solar cycle last October. The cycle’s peak produces more solar flares and coronal mass ejections from the sun that are crucial to more active aurora displays.