Northern lights expected to illuminate skies across 15 US States tonight and through the weekend

By Faun Grey

Northern lights: Wix images

Intense solar winds are creating geomagnetic storm conditions that could make auroras visible from Alaska down to Oregon.

The spectacular northern lights might grace the skies over 15 U.S. States tonight (May 30) and continue through the weekend, as heightened geomagnetic activity could push the aurora borealis further south than typical, according to recent reports from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Our planet is currently experiencing impacts from high-velocity solar winds, creating pressure against Earth's magnetic field and intensifying the storm conditions — welcome news for aurora enthusiasts hoping to witness this celestial spectacle.

While meteorologists are currently anticipating mild G1 geomagnetic storm conditions in the coming days, these predictions can shift rapidly. Recently, an unexpected G3 storm on May 28 produced auroras visible across 17 U.S. States, reaching as far south as Italy. This G3 event had initially been expected to only reach G1 intensity.

According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, the Kp index is anticipated to reach 4.67 over the weekend. For current timing information, visit NOAA's 3-day forecast. (The Kp index measures geomagnetic activity on a scale from 0 to 9, with higher values indicating more intense aurora activity.)

Aurora enthusiasts should prepare their equipment, maintain vigilance, and keep their eyes on the night sky! Stay updated with the latest predictions and storm alerts through our aurora forecast live blog.

Where can I see the northern lights tonight?

Alaska presents the best opportunity for viewing the northern lights tonight and throughout the weekend. If G1 storm conditions materialize, the auroras might be visible in high-latitude regions, including Michigan and Maine, as reported by NOAA.

We've compiled a list of all 15 states that fall entirely or partially above the potential viewing line according to NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center. The list is arranged from most to least likely based on proximity to the auroral oval's center and the extent of each state's coverage within or near the viewing line.

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However, remember that auroras are unpredictable — sometimes appearing much further south than expected, while other times barely manifesting at all. Perfect displays require multiple favorable conditions. Should G3 levels occur, aurora visibility could extend as far as Illinois and Oregon, according to NOAA.

States that could see auroras tonight and over the weekend:

Alaska

Montana

North Dakota

Minnesota

Upper Michigan

Wisconsin

Idaho

Vermont

Maine

New Hampshire

New York

South Dakota

Wyoming

Washington

Iowa

Northern Hemisphere aurora forecast courtesy of the Met Office.

How can I see the northern lights from where I live?

For optimal viewing of the northern lights during the forecasted periods, seek out a north-facing observation point well removed from urban light pollution. However, it's important to note that as we draw closer to the summer solstice occurring on June 20/21, the optimal viewing window is becoming increasingly limited. Your best chance for aurora observation typically falls between 1 and 2 a.m. during these early morning hours.

For those keen on monitoring space weather conditions and identifying prime aurora viewing opportunities, several mobile applications are available that provide location-specific forecasts. I

rely on "My Aurora Forecast & Alerts," which functions effectively on both iOS and Android platforms, though numerous similar applications can serve the purpose equally well. Additionally, I utilize the "Space Weather Live" application, available for both iOS and Android users, which offers comprehensive insights into space weather conditions and their potential impact on aurora visibility.