Sky enthusiasts in the northern United States have a solid shot at catching the aurora borealis this evening, January 16, thanks to a rush of fast-moving solar wind hitting Earth’s magnetic field. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center reports that a large coronal hole on the sun is sending out this high-speed stream.
When it reaches our planet, it jostles the magnetosphere, sparking geomagnetic activity that often produces colorful displays in the night sky. Forecasters expect minor G1-level storm conditions, with a decent possibility of brief moderate G2 spikes continuing through January 18. While G1 events typically light up higher latitudes, a G2 push could carry the glow noticeably farther south than normal.
According to the latest NOAA, the southern edge of where the northern lights might appear on the northern horizon includes parts or all of these 15 states:
- Alaska
- North Dakota
- Minnesota
- Montana
- Wisconsin
- Michigan
- South Dakota
- Idaho
- Maine
- Vermont
- New Hampshire
- Washington
- Iowa
- Wyoming
- New York
People in Canada and northern Europe also stand a good chance if skies stay clear. Keep in mind that auroras are unpredictable by nature. Stronger activity than expected might extend visibility even farther south, while weaker conditions or pesky clouds could mean nothing shows up at all.
Read more: Aurora Borealis Tonight: Full List Of US States Where Northern Lights Will Be Visible
The prime viewing window usually falls between late evening and early morning hours, ideally in dark locations away from city lights, facing north, of course. For the most up-to-date details, check NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center site, as conditions can shift quickly. If you’re in one of those states tonight, bundle up, head to a dark spot, and keep your eyes peeled for a potential free light show courtesy of the sun.
