Northern lights could be visible in these states tonight

Topline

According to the latest forecast from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, several northern U.S. states could potentially catch a glimpse of the northern lights Sunday night into Monday morning, following a geomagnetic storm that lit up the sky last week.

Important facts

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From where will the Northern Lights be visible?

NOAA predicted the northern lights could be visible from the far northeast corner of Washington, the tip of Idaho, about half of Montana and Minnesota, North Dakota and the northern parts of Wisconsin and Michigan.

What is the best way to observe the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are best viewed away from city lights in a high, dark location between 10:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. local time. NOAA advises people trying to see the lights to get to a good vantage point, such as the top of a hill, and get a clear view to the north.

How do you photograph the Northern Lights?

If you want to photograph the northern lights with your smartphone, you should use night mode and shorten the shutter speed to better capture the movement of the northern lights.

Important background

Solar activity has been brisk in recent months as the Sun's 11-year solar cycle – Solar Cycle 25 – approaches its peak, expected to reach sometime between late 2024 and early 2026. Sunspots (areas where geomagnetic storms form) are expected to continue to intensify as the cycle that began in December 2019 approaches and reaches its peak. It is possible that frequent observations will continue to occur before the peak, but it is difficult for scientists to predict exactly when storms will occur.

Further reading

ForbesNorthern Lights: Aurora Borealis Lights Up US Skies Amid Geomagnetic Storm (Photos)From Ty RoushForbesNorthern Lights Update: This is where Aurora Borealis could appear this evening and SundayFrom Antonio Pequeno IV