Northern Lights Incoming: Aurora borealis to dance across skies tonight – Here’s where to see them

Stargazers across the United States may be treated to a rare celestial display tonight as the northern lights are forecast to reach further south than usual. Scientists say a fast-moving stream of solar wind could trigger geomagnetic storm conditions, making auroras visible across 15 states.

Solar wind stream targets Earth
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a large coronal hole on the sun is releasing a powerful stream of solar wind towards Earth. This stream is expected to interact with the planet’s magnetic field, creating minor geomagnetic storm activity overnight. NOAA forecasts the Kp index could rise to 5, a level that typically produces visible auroras under dark and clear skies.

The best viewing hours are predicted between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. EDT. The U.K. Met Office has also warned that the storming could continue into Tuesday and Wednesday, with a possible coronal mass ejection adding to the activity.

Fifteen states under aurora watch
The latest NOAA forecast shows 15 U.S. states falling within or near the aurora viewing zone. These include Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Maine, South Dakota, Vermont, New Hampshire, Idaho, Washington, New York, Wyoming and Iowa.