Science Current

15 States Could See the Northern Lights Overnight August 18-19!

Posted on by Sinna

Potential Northern Lights Sightings Expected Overnight on August 18-19

The northern lights may light up the night sky across parts of 15 U.S. states on August 18 and 19, due to a fast-moving stream of solar wind that could induce geomagnetic storm conditions, according to weather agencies.

Forecasters from NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center and the U.K. Met Office anticipate minor (G1) geomagnetic activity tonight, with the potential for aurora enhancements in the coming days. Stay updated through the aurora forecast live blog.

What’s Causing the Aurora Activity?

A large coronal hole on the sun is currently facing Earth, ejecting a swift stream of solar wind in our direction. Coronal holes are areas where magnetic field lines open up, allowing solar particles to escape more readily. This high-speed solar wind is expected to interact with Earth’s magnetic field tonight, increasing the likelihood of minor geomagnetic disturbances.

view of the sun with a large dark path labelled with large white letters saying 'Earth-facing coronal hole'
A view of the sun today with a prominent dark area indicating the Earth-facing coronal hole, which is releasing fast solar wind toward Earth. (Image credit: NASA Solar Dynamics Observatory/graphic made in Canva Pro by Daisy Dobrijevic)

Optimal Viewing Time

NOAA’s forecast suggests the geomagnetic index, Kp 5, will peak between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. EDT on August 19, offering a good window for Northern Lights viewers. The 3-day Kp index forecast indicates a moderate geomagnetic activity that might produce visible auroras. The U.K. Met Office also warns of possible G1 storming continuing into next week due to a potential impact from a coronal mass ejection (CME), though predictions remain uncertain.

Where to See the Aurora Tonight

Tonight, the auroras could be visible in parts of the northern U.S., including:

  1. Alaska
  2. Montana
  3. North Dakota
  4. Minnesota
  5. Wisconsin
  6. Michigan
  7. Maine
  8. South Dakota
  9. Vermont
  10. New Hampshire
  11. Idaho
  12. Washington
  13. New York
  14. Wyoming
  15. Iowa

Viewing conditions such as clear, dark skies with minimal light pollution and a north-facing horizon significantly improve the chances of seeing the lights.

How to Improve Your Chances

If you’re in one of these states, find a dark, open spot away from city lights, look north, and be ready to observe late at night. It’s helpful to use space weather apps like “My Aurora Forecast & Alerts” or “Space Weather Live” to check real-time aurora activity and increase your chances of a sighting.