Aurora Borealis Potential Sightings: Ten States Predicted for Tonight's Display
Catch a Glimpse of the Aurora Borealis: Here's Where to Look Tonight!
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The Big Show: Aurora Borealis this Wednesday!
Exciting news for sky gazers! Expect some stunning displays of the Northern Lights in several northern states this Wednesday night. Perfect weather conditions promise a dazzling show for those lucky enough to be in the right places.
Key Information to Remember:
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting a Kp index of four for Wednesday night, which hints at "a decent amount of auroral activity," that could make for quite an impressive viewing experience for those in the appropriate locations.
Wednesday night's viewing line for the Northern Lights reaches as far south as central South Dakota and southern Minnesota. As you move northward from the line, the prospects of catching the Northern Lights significantly increase. Regions like northern Washington, northern Idaho, central and northern Montana, North Dakota, the northern half of South Dakota, central and northern Minnesota, northern Wisconsin, northern Michigan and northern Maine may have a reduced chance of witnessing this magnificent spectacle.
Interestingly, forecasts predict a considerable decrease in auroral activity on Thursday night. So, if you're an aurora enthusiast, Wednesday seems to be the ideal night to witness this celestial dance.
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Where can I Spot the Northern Lights?
While many areas in U.S. and Canada may have reduced chances, much of Alaska, as well as Canada, will have a higher likelihood of viewing the Northern Lights.
Tips for an Unforgettable Viewing Experience:
For observers:
Expert advice suggests searching for the lights from higher vantage points with minimal light pollution and clear skies. NOAA recommends viewing the lights between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.
For photographers:
Smartphone camera users should utilize their devices' night mode. For better results, set your device or traditional camera with wide-angle lenses, wide apertures, and high ISO values.
Background Info:
2025 has seen a reasonable number of Northern Lights appearances following an exceptionally strong year in 2024, when a solar maximum, the peak phase of solar activity within the sun's 11-year solar cycle, was reached. Last May, a significant geomagnetic storm, one of the strongest in approximately 20 years, graced Earth. Given NASA's predictions of the solar maximum stretching into 2025, auroral activity could remain strong this year as well.
Further Reading:
Why You Should Plan a Northern Lights Trip to Scandinavia in 2025 (Forbes)
Northern Lights Displays Hit a 500-Year Peak in 2024 — Here's Where You Could Catch Aurora Borealis in 2025 (Forbes)
- In anticipation of Wednesday's Northern Lights show, don't forget to post about the aurora sighting on LinkedIn and share your excitement with your network.
- The Thursday night forecast suggests a decrease in auroral activity, making Wednesday night a significant opportunity to capture the Northern Lights on camera, especially for photographers utilizing night mode, wide-angle lenses, wide apertures, and high ISO values.
- Despite many U.S. and Canadian areas having reduced chances, much of Alaska and Canada will have a higher likelihood of viewing the Northern Lights, making tonight an ideal time to plan a trip to catch this celestial spectacle.
