Topline
Ten states in the U.S. will have a shot at seeing the northern lights Saturday night, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which has forecast mild auroral activity along parts of the northern U.S. border.
Northern lights are visible in the sky in Sterling Heights, Mich. as a G4 solar storm hits the Earth on Thursday, October. 10, 2024.
Photo by Salwan Georges/The Washington Post via Getty Images
Key Facts
NOAA has forecast a Kp index of five, meaning the aurora can be “quite pleasing” to look at for observers in the right areas.
No geomagnetic storm impacts, which can strengthen auroral showings, have been forecast.
Saturday’s auroral activity is not expected to continue, with NOAA issuing a Kp index of three for Sunday night.
Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible?
Areas within Wednesday’s northern lights forecast include northern Washington, the northern tip of Idaho, Montana, the northern edge of Wyoming, North Dakota, northern South Dakota, the northern half of Minnesota, northern Wisconsin, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and the northern tip of Michigan. Chances to see the northern lights are even higher in Alaska and significantly increase the farther inland observers are in the state.
Saturday’s aurora forecast.
NOAA
What’s The Best Way To See The Northern Lights?
Northern lights viewing is best done between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. High vantage points and places with little to no light pollution can also help chances of seeing the aurora. Low moon illumination helps as well. Saturday’s waning crescent means the moon will be about 15% illuminated.
What’s The Best Way To Photograph The Northern Lights?
If applicable, take photos with low apertures, wide-angle lenses and tripods. Smartphone users should use night mode and avoid using flash.
Key Background
Northern lights activity has remained fair throughout the year, benefiting from the peak of the sun’s 11-year solar cycle reached in 2024. The event marked a 500-year high in auroral activity, which is expected to decline the more time passes from the peak.
Further Reading
Aurora Dashboard (NOAA)