NOAA Forecast: Nine US States May See Aurora Borealis Thursday Night
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a forecast indicating that the northern lights may be visible in up to nine U.S. states on Thursday night. With a Kp index of five, observers in regions along the northern border have a low chance of witnessing the phenomenon, while Alaska retains a high probability. The states with potential visibility include northern Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Friday night offers similar viewing opportunities as the forecast remains identical. Experts recommend observing between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. in areas with minimal light pollution and moonlight, noting that the moon will be a waning crescent with only 7% visibility. For photography, using night mode without flash and employing tripods is advised. Although auroral activity has remained elevated since the solar cycle peak in 2024, 2026 may mark the final year of such reliable sightings as solar activity gradually declines. No geomagnetic storm warnings have been issued, suggesting stable conditions for casual observation rather than intense storm-driven displays.
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NOAA Forecast: Nine US States May See Aurora Borealis Thursday Night
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a forecast indicating that the northern lights may be visible in up to nine U.S. states on Thursday night. With a Kp index of five, observers in regions along the northern border have a low chance of witnessing the phenomenon, while Alaska retains a high probability. The states with potential visibility include northern Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Friday night offers similar viewing opportunities as the forecast remains identical. Experts recommend observing between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. in areas with minimal light pollution and moonlight, noting that the moon will be a waning crescent with only 7% visibility. For photography, using night mode without flash and employing tripods is advised. Although auroral activity has remained elevated since the solar cycle peak in 2024, 2026 may mark the final year of such reliable sightings as solar activity gradually declines. No geomagnetic storm warnings have been issued, suggesting stable conditions for casual observation rather than intense storm-driven displays.