The Northern Lights could still be visible tonight (Nov. 13-14) as the lingering effects of recent solar flares continue to ripple through Earth’s magnetic field.
Mild (G1) to strong (G3) geomagnetic storm conditions are still possible during the afternoon hours, according to NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center. A G3 storm warning remains in effect today and a gradual return to calmer space weather is expected by Friday, according to the UK Met Office
Where can I see the Northern Lights tonight?
States that could see auroras tonight
Based on the latest NOAA Aurora Forecast MapThe following 10 US states appear wholly or partially above the line of sight of the aurora:
- Alaska
- Washington
- Idaho
- Mountain
- North Dakota
- South Dakota
- Minnesota
- Wisconsin
- Michigan
- Maine
As always, keep in mind that auroras are not guaranteed. Sometimes they appear further south than expected and other times not even. Many conditions must match for good viewing, including cloudiness, light pollution, and the intensity of geomagnetic disturbance.
Northern Hemisphere Aurora Forecast courtesy of the UK Met Office
What time should I look for auroras tonight?
According to NOAA’s 3-day forecast, geomagnetic storm activity is expected to be greatest earlier in the evening, with the greatest chances for auroras occurring during the following key times:
- 4 pm – 7 pm EST (2100-0000 GMT): Strong G3 storm levels possible
- 7 pm – 10 pm EST (0000-0300 GMT): Minor G1 storm levels possible
How can I see the Northern Lights from where I live?
If you live in one of the 10 US states expected to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights tonight, there are a few things you can do to give yourself the best chance of seeing them.
- Find a vantage point facing north with a clear view of the horizon and as far away from light pollution as possible.
- Use your phone’s camera to scan the sky, as the camera is great at capturing faint auroras before your eyes detect them. This will give you a good idea of which direction you should focus your attention.
- Try to let your eyes adjust to the dark for at least 30 minutes; This will help your night vision develop.
- Wear warm clothes! Part of the fun of hunting auroras is the chase. Be prepared to sit or stand for hours if conditions look promising, as you won’t want to miss the show when it starts!
We recommend downloading a space weather app that provides aurora forecasts based on your location. One option I use is “My Aurora Forecast and Alerts”, available for both iOS and Android. However, any similar app should work fine. I also use the “Space Weather Live” app, which is available on iOS and Androidto gain a deeper understanding of whether the current space weather Conditions are favorable for aurora sightings. our guide on how to photograph auroras is designed to help you capture the moment with a stunning photo.
Editor’s note: If you take a photo of the Northern Lights or Southern Lights and would like to share it with Space.com readers, please send your photo(s), comments, and your name and location to spacephotos@space.com.
#Northern #Lights #visible #states #November
