The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are predicted to shine above several areas across the United States on Tuesday, May 27. According to forecasts by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s Space Weather Prediction Center, the aurora will be visible for two consecutive nights, with Wednesday, May 28, being less strong.
The best viewing time is just after sunset or before sunrise when the lights are most active. However, they are not visible during daylight hours due to the Earth’s atmosphere blocking the view. The northern lights form as a result of geomagnetic storms caused by charged particles from the sun mixing with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, resulting in varying colors and intensities.
Several states across the northern US, including Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and parts of Michigan, are predicted to experience the northern lights. May 27 is expected to have the strongest display, with a Kp scale rating of five. Visibility will be improved as the aurora moves further from the poles.
To witness this spectacle, dark surroundings are essential, along with a clear view of the sky. It’s recommended to find a location far away from city lights and other forms of light pollution for the best viewing experience. The northern lights can also be observed from distances up to 1000 km away when the conditions are right.
For those who want to capture the moment, smartphones with Night Mode settings can help take high-quality photos of the aurora. Simply point your lens at the sky and snap away during the peak viewing hours.
Source: https://people.com/how-to-watch-the-last-minute-northern-lights-display-from-these-states-may-2025-11742406