A rare opportunity to witness the breathtaking display of the Northern Lights will be available in northern U.S. states this weekend, according to space weather forecasters. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center has predicted a G1-rated geomagnetic storm, which is expected to begin overnight on Saturday, May 17 through Sunday, May 18.
This follows the largest solar flare of 2025 so far and just over a year after an extreme G5 geomagnetic storm in May 2024. The ideal viewing conditions will be provided by clear, dark skies away from light pollution, with a waning gibbous moon rising well after midnight.
The forecast suggests that aurora borealis will be visible at high latitudes, such as northern Michigan and Maine, and may also be seen in parts of Alaska, northeastern Washington, northern Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, northern South Dakota, Minnesota, northern Michigan, Wisconsin, and northern Maine. The predicted Kp index is 4.67, indicating a strong display with more auroral activity.
It’s essential to note that space weather forecasts are unpredictable, and the forecast can change quickly. Skywatchers are advised to check NOAA’s Aurora view line for tonight and tomorrow night, as well as its 30-minute forecast and X account, for the latest updates.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jamiecartereurope/2025/05/16/northern-lights-may-be-visible-in-us-this-weekend-after-solar-flares