Topline
A group of states along and near the U.S. northern border will have a chance at seeing northern lights Tuesday night, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which has also predicted a minor geomagnetic storm.
The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are visible over Lake Washington, in Renton, Wash., on Friday evening, May 10, 2024. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)
The Associated Press
Key Facts
NOAA issued a Kp index of five for Tuesday night, meaning the aurora will become brighter, more active and “be quite pleasing to look at” for observers in the right areas.
The curved viewing line nearly touches the border of South Dakota and Nebraska, with chances of seeing aurora borealis becoming stronger the further north people are from the line, which stretches coast to coast.
Northern lights observers may also catch a glimpse of the natural phenomenon Wednesday night, which carries a Kp index of four and a slightly reduced viewing line.
A minor geomagnetic storm is also predicted for Tuesday, potentially strengthening the night’s northern lights showings.
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Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible?
States within Tuesday’s viewing line (see map below) include Alaska, northern Washington, northern Idaho, Montana, northeastern Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, northern Iowa, Wisconsin, the Michigan Upper Peninsula, northern Michigan, northeastern New York, northern Vermont, northern New Hampshire and northern Maine.
Tuesday’s viewing line.
NOAA
What’s The Best Way To See The Northern Lights?
Northern lights observers should try to view the aurora between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. in areas with little to no light pollution. High vantage points can increase the likelihood of seeing the northern lights.
What’s The Best Way To Photograph The Northern Lights?
Smartphone users should avoid night mode and flash when trying to get photos of the northern lights. Tripods and low apertures can help smartphone users and traditional camera users, as can wide-angle lenses.
Key Background
Northern lights activity has been above-average throughout the year, which can be attributed to the sun reaching the peak of its 11-year solar cycle. The peak is known for creating the solar flares and coronal mass ejections that cause northern lights showings. The upcoming winter could help provide more visible auroral activity, as nights will be longer and darker.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/antoniopequenoiv/2025/10/28/northern-lights-forecast-14-states-could-experience-aurora-borealis-tuesday/
