A high-speed stream of solar wind is expected to sweep past Earth tonight (March 13), potentially triggering minor (G1) geomagnetic storm conditions according to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.
Forecasters say that storm activity is most likely on the 13th-14th. March, with elevated geomagnetic conditions possibly lasting through March 15 as fixed solar wind the current continues to buffer Earth’s magnetic field.
The article continues below
Where can I see the northern lights tonight?
Based on latest NOAA aurora forecast mapthe following 9 US states are shown in whole or in part above the possible line of sight for the Northern Lights:
- Alaska
- North Dakota
- Minnesota
- Montana
- South Dakota
- Wisconsin
- Idaho
- Washington
- Maine
But remember that northern lights can be difficult. The list is based on current forecast data at the time of publication, but if conditions strengthen, the Northern Lights could reach much further south than expected. Likewise, if conditions don’t line up, we could end up with no aurora at all.
Aurora warning in the Northern Hemisphere courtesy of the UK Met Office
When is the best time to look for the northern lights tonight?
If the sky is clear, you can look out for the Northern Lights as soon as it gets dark, as geomagnetic activity is predicted to be heightened around 6 p.m. 11 a.m. EDT (1500 GMT) and remain elevated overnight.
according to NOAA’s 3-day forecastpossible geomagnetic storm activity is expected to be best at the following times:
|
EDT |
GMT |
Activity |
|---|---|---|
|
11-14 |
1500-1800 |
Minor (G1) geomagnetic storm possible |
|
20.00 – 23.00 |
0000-0300 (March 14) |
Minor (G1) geomagnetic storm possible |
How can I see the northern lights from where I live?
If you’re in one of the 9 US states where the Northern Lights can appear tonight, a little planning can go a long way to improving your chances of seeing them.
- Start by finding a place with an unobstructed view to the north, preferably somewhere dark and well away from city lights. The clearer the view of the northern horizon, the better.
- When you’re ready, start scanning the sky with your phone’s camera, as they’re usually good at picking up faint auroras that aren’t immediately apparent to the naked eye. This helps you identify where the activity can start and where you should focus most of your attention.
- Dark adaptation is crucial and often overlooked when chasing the northern lights. If you can, give your eyes at least 30 minutes to adjust to the dark so you can better spot subtle auroras. Remember that even a quick glance at a bright light or phone screen can reset the process, forcing you to start over.
- Dress for the occasion. Aurora shows can be unpredictable, and if conditions look promising, you may find yourself standing outside for a while. Make sure to wear plenty of warm layers!
We recommend downloading a space weather app that provides aurora alerts based on your location. One option I use is “My Aurora Forecast & 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 the flow space weather conditions are favorable for northern lights.
Want to take the perfect northern lights photo? Our how to photograph the aurora’s guide can help.
Editor’s Note: If you take a photo of the northern or southern lights and want to share it with Space.com readers, send your photos, comments, and your name and location to spacephotos@space.com.
