Aurora Borealis Forecasted for US States Along Canadian Border on Tuesday
Several U.S. states along the Canadian border may witness the aurora borealis on Tuesday night, according to a forecast from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The forecast indicates a Kp index of three, indicating the northern lights will be “brighter” than average.
The display is expected to be “quite pleasing” for those in the right locations. However, the activity may not be as intense on Wednesday and Thursday, with projected Kp indexes of two for both days. There’s also a chance of minor radio blackouts through Friday, potentially affecting high-frequency radios.
Visitors can expect to see the northern lights visible across Alaska, but there is a lower likelihood in six other states, including Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan. To maximize visibility, it’s best to view the display from a high vantage point away from light pollution between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.
Photographers can capture stunning images using wide-angle lenses, ideal for low-light conditions, with an aperture of four or less and a focus set to the farthest possible setting. Smartphone users are recommended to turn on night mode and disable flash.
The northern lights’ recent display reached a 500-year peak in 2024, fueled by solar activity that created intense geomagnetic storms. NASA’s forecasts suggest increased auroral activity will persist into early 2026.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/tylerroush/2025/02/18/northern-lights-forecast-heres-where-aurora-borealis-may-appear-tonight