Key Facts

Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible?

Portions of at least eight states have a chance of seeing the northern lights, according to NOAA, which forecasts a "low" chance of seeing the lights tonight in northern Washington, northern Idaho, northern Montana, much of North Dakota, northern Minnesota and the northernmost stretches of Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. A high chance is forecast for most of Alaska.

(Note on viewline: NOAA spokesperson Erica Grow Cei told Forbes the viewline is experiencing “a known issue,” and observers should refer to the legend at the bottom left showing the “Likelihood of Aurora” for assessing viewing chances.)

What’s The Best Way To See The Northern Lights?

Observers looking for the best shot should try to catch a look at the northern lights between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., when the aurora borealis is usually the most active. High vantage points, no moonlight and little to no light pollution can also increase viewers’ chances of seeing the natural phenomenon.

What’s The Best Way To Photograph The Northern Lights?

Avoid using flash and take photos in low apertures if possible. Tripods and night mode can also help observers get better photos of the northern lights.

Key Background

The northern lights have remained active following the peak of the sun’s 11-year solar cycle in October 2024. Displays of the northern lights reached a 500-year peak in 2024 after solar activity exceeded expectations. 2026 will likely be the last year of active aurora borealis showings, as auroral activity will wind down the more time passes from the peak of the solar cycle.

Further Reading

Aurora Dashboard (NOAA)