Some states along the Canadian border are expected to see the northern lights on Thursday night, as the lasting effects of a geomagnetic storm may allow more observers to see the phenomenon, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
The lasting effects of a geomagnetic storm are expected to pull the northern lights to more states, ... [+]
The NOAA forecast a Kp index of three on a scale of nine for Thursday night, meaning there will be “more auroral activity” that “can be quite pleasing to look at” for those in the right areas.
Thursday’s view line—marking a minimal opportunity to see the phenomenon—could be pulled further south to more states, as the NOAA expects the Kp index to increase above four as geomagnetic storm conditions from Wednesday continue.
Similar auroral activity is expected on Friday and Saturday, with a forecasted Kp index of about three for either day, according to NOAA’s three-day forecast.
Get Forbes Breaking News Text Alerts: We’re launching text message alerts so you'll always know the biggest stories shaping the day’s headlines. Text “Alerts” to (201) 335-0739 or sign up here.
Most of Alaska will have a chance to see the northern lights, while parts of northeastern Washington, northern Idaho, northern Montana, North Dakota, northern Minnesota, northern Wisconsin and Upper Michigan have a lower likelihood of viewing auroral activity. (See view line below.)
Thursday night's view line.
The northern lights are best seen between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, according to NOAA, which recommends traveling to a high vantage point away from light pollution.
National Geographic recommends using wide-angle lenses, an aperture or F-stop of four or less and a focus set to the farthest possible setting. If using a smartphone, turning on night mode and disabling flash is recommended.
The strongest northern lights display in at least the last 500 years occurred in 2024, after NASA said activity on the sun’s surface achieved a “solar maximum.” Electrons from solar events like solar flares or coronal mass ejections interact with molecules and atoms of nitrogen and oxygen in the Earth’s atmosphere, causing them to become “excited” before producing the colorful displays of aurora borealis. A peak in solar activity is expected to persist into early 2026, according to NASA.
Why You Should Plan A Northern Lights Trip To Scandinavia In 2025 (Forbes)