Rare ‘High’ Chance Of Aurora In These States Tonight
Forbes • • nation
Key Points:
- The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts a higher than usual chance to see the northern lights on Wednesday night across parts of the northern U.S., especially near the northern border.
- States with potential visibility include Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, the Dakotas, Nebraska, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, with Alaska having very favorable conditions.
- Northern Minnesota, northern North Dakota, and far northeastern Montana have a “high” chance of seeing the lights, a rare occurrence for the contiguous U.S.
- The best viewing times are between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. from locations with minimal light pollution, and photography tips include using tripods, night mode, wide-angle lenses, and avoiding flash.
- The current auroral activity is linked to the sun’s 11-year solar cycle, which peaked two years ago; while activity remains strong now, it is expected to decline by 2026.