NOAA Forecast: Auroras May Stretch From Alaska to Illinois
Skywatchers across the U.S. are in for a breathtaking display tonight, as the northern lights (aurora borealis) could be visible across 17 states or more, from Alaska to Illinois, thanks to a powerful coronal mass ejection (CME) released during a recent X5.1-class solar flare.
According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, the incoming CME could trigger strong to severe geomagnetic storm conditions (G3–G4 levels) overnight, making it one of the most widespread aurora events of 2025. The phenomenon follows last night’s stunning light show, which was visible across much of North America — even as far south as Mexico.
Where You Can See the Northern Lights Tonight
Based on NOAA’s latest aurora forecast map, the following 17 U.S. states are currently within the aurora visibility zone:
- Alaska
- Washington
- Oregon
- Montana
- North Dakota
- South Dakota
- Minnesota
- Wisconsin
- Michigan
- Wyoming
- Iowa
- Nebraska
- Illinois
- New York
- Vermont
- New Hampshire
- Idaho
However, experts emphasize that auroras can extend farther south than forecast if geomagnetic activity intensifies. That means skywatchers in Colorado, Maryland, or even northern Florida might have a slim chance of spotting the northern lights tonight, especially in areas with low light pollution.
Best Time to View the Northern Lights Tonight
NOAA’s 3-day forecast indicates two prime viewing windows for the aurora borealis:
- 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. EST (0000–0300 GMT): Strong G3 storming expected
- 10 p.m. – 4 a.m. EST (0300–0900 GMT): Moderate G2 storming possible
In general, the best time to view the northern lights tonight is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, when the skies are darkest, and geomagnetic activity tends to peak.
Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights with the Naked Eye
If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis, preparation is key. Here are a few expert tips from NOAA and seasoned aurora chasers:
- Find a dark, north-facing vantage point far from city lights. Parks, beaches, and open fields offer the best viewing conditions.
- Let your eyes adjust to the dark for at least 30 minutes — avoid looking at phone screens to improve night vision.
- Use your smartphone camera to detect faint auroras before they become visible to the naked eye; cameras can often pick up colors that eyes can’t.
- Check real-time aurora apps like My Aurora Forecast & Alerts or Space Weather Live for localized updates on visibility.
- Dress warmly and be prepared to wait. Auroras can appear suddenly and fade within minutes, so patience is key.
What Causes the Northern Lights?
The northern lights are caused by charged particles from the Sun colliding with Earth’s magnetic field. When these solar particles — often released during solar flares or CMEs — interact with gases in Earth’s atmosphere, they create colorful waves of light that shimmer across the sky.
Green is the most common color, produced by oxygen molecules, while reds and purples come from nitrogen at higher altitudes. Tonight’s storm, fueled by one of the strongest solar eruptions of 2025, could bring vivid red and violet auroras visible even in southern latitudes.
How NOAA Predicts Aurora Activity
NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center uses data from satellites like the Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR) to monitor solar wind speeds, magnetic fields, and charged particles from the Sun. When these readings spike, it indicates a geomagnetic storm that can light up the night sky.
NOAA has issued a G3 (Strong) geomagnetic storm alert for tonight, warning that while the event poses no risk to the public, it may cause minor satellite or radio disruptions.
Don’t Miss the Show Tonight
Whether you’re in Colorado, Maryland, Illinois, or even as far south as Orlando or Phoenix, tonight offers a rare opportunity to witness one of nature’s most extraordinary displays. The northern lights tonight may not return this bright until the next major solar storm — so bundle up, head outside, and look north.
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