Aurora alert: Rare Borealis display predicted over US due to geomagnetic storm

UPDATED: Jun 20, 2025 01:29 IST

The Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted increased Northern Lights activity for Thursday night, forecasting a Kp index of 5 out of 9. This means the aurora borealis may intensify and become visible farther south than usual.

Based on NOAA’s three-day space weather forecast, geomagnetic activity is expected to increase Thursday evening and continue into the early hours of Friday, with minor to moderate geomagnetic storms anticipated.

WEEKEND AURORA VISIBILITY LIKELY TO DECLINE

While auroral activity peaks Thursday night, NOAA expects space weather to calm by Friday and Saturday. The Kp index will dip slightly, just above 3 on Friday then drop to 2 on Saturday, reducing the likelihood of widespread aurora sightings over the weekend.

WHERE TO SEE THE LIGHTS?

According to Forbes, a "view line" passes through several northern US states. Areas with a chance to see the aurora include parts of northern Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Upper Michigan. Northern parts of New York, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine may also experience faint activity under perfect conditions.

HOW TO MAXIMISE YOUR VIEWING EXPERIENCE

To boost your chances of seeing the aurora, NOAA recommends heading to high-altitude northern locations with minimal light pollution.

The best viewing window is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, under clear skies.

Tips for Capturing the Aurora on Camera

Photographers advise using a wide-angle lens with aperture f/4 or lower. The ISO and shutter speeds need to be adjusted according to the aurora's brightness.

Smartphone users should enable night mode, use a tripod, and turn off the flash to enhance image clarity.