12 States Could See Northern Lights Tuesday Night

Millions of people across a dozen northern states might get a spectacular treat Tuesday night as the aurora borealis dances across the sky.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts a small geomagnetic storm will arrive overnight Tuesday as fast-moving solar wind from the sun reaches Earth. When those charged particles interact with our planet's magnetic field, they create the shimmering curtains of light known as the northern lights.

The viewing line includes Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Maine, plus northern parts of Washington, Idaho, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire. NOAA forecasts the storm will push the Kp index to five on a scale of nine by early Wednesday morning.

Your best chance to catch the show runs between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time. Head as far north as possible to a high vantage point facing north and away from city lights for the clearest view.

The Bright Side

This spectacular display is part of something even bigger. The northern lights have been putting on unusually stunning shows across America for the past two years as the sun reaches solar maximum, the peak of its 11-year activity cycle.

The sun's activity has actually surpassed scientists' expectations, NASA reports. Since 2024, several major geomagnetic storms have produced rare displays visible across dozens of states, drawing millions of people outside to witness nature's most spectacular light show.

Want to capture the moment? Smartphone users should turn on night mode for iPhones or Pro mode for Android, disable flash, and shoot in RAW format. Camera enthusiasts can set their aperture to four or less and focus to the furthest setting. Everyone should use a tripod to keep images steady.

While auroral activity is expected to decline in the coming years as the sun exits its maximum period, right now we're living in a golden age for aurora viewing in the lower 48 states.

Tonight might be your chance to witness one of nature's most breathtaking spectacles, a reminder that even our nearest star still holds the power to surprise and inspire us.