Full Breakdown
Northern Lights Expected Across Parts of the United States Wednesday Night
By Drooid · · How we work
Event Overview
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a forecast of mild auroral activity for Wednesday night. A Kp index of five and a G1 (minor) geomagnetic storm classification indicate that the aurora may be “quite pleasing” for observers in suitable locations, though no major geomagnetic storm is anticipated.
Geographic Forecast
NOAA’s forecast map highlights up to ten states where the northern lights could be visible. These include northern Washington, the northern tip of Idaho, much of Montana, the Wyoming-Montana border, North Dakota, northern South Dakota, northern Minnesota, northern Wisconsin, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and northern Michigan. Alaska remains the most reliable viewing spot. The agency also notes that under G1 conditions the aurora is commonly visible at high latitudes such as northern Michigan and Maine, though some areas fall within a low-likelihood portion of the forecast.
Viewing Recommendations
The optimal viewing window is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time. NOAA advises seeking dark locations away from city lights, preferably on elevated terrain with an unobstructed view of the northern horizon. Clear skies are essential, and observers should minimize moonlight—Wednesday’s moon will be 91 % illuminated, which may reduce visibility. Smartphone users are encouraged to use night mode and avoid flash, while traditional cameras benefit from wide-angle lenses, sturdy tripods and low apertures.
Background on Aurora Activity
Auroras occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with Earth’s upper atmosphere, producing glowing green, red and purple displays. Activity peaked in 2024 when the sun reached the maximum of its 11-year cycle, and has since tapered. Nonetheless, 2026 remains a promising year for sightings. Past examples include a display over Fairbanks, Alaska on March 20, 2026, and an aurora over Princeton, Minnesota on November 11, 2025.
Outlook for the Coming Days
NOAA expects geomagnetic activity to rise late Wednesday, with periods of minor storm conditions likely on Thursday as a high-speed solar-wind stream intensifies. Thursday’s auroral visibility is projected to be limited to roughly three states, a reduction from Wednesday’s broader forecast.