A stronger-than-usual geomagnetic storm is expected to bring the northern lights visible across the northern United States on Tuesday night, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The minor storm will have a Kp index of 5, indicating the lights may be “quite pleasing to look at.”
In 15 states, including Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan, there is a moderate chance of seeing the northern lights. NOAA recommends finding a high vantage point and avoiding light pollution between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time for the best view.
The northern lights have appeared frequently in American skies this year due to unusual solar activity. NASA expects the aurora borealis to remain active through 2026, which is caused by the sun’s solar maximum period.
However, NOAA faces a unique challenge with its workforce reduction. The agency has been targeted for layoffs, including meteorologists and scientists, prompting concerns over disruptions to ship navigation, farmers’ forecasts, and weather monitoring. Over 1,000 protesters gathered outside a NOAA building in Colorado to protest the firings.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/conormurray/2025/03/04/latest-northern-lights-forecast-these-15-states-could-see-aurora-tonight-amid-geomagnetic-storms