Minneapolis, Minn. – A powerful burst of solar energy is creating a rare opportunity for millions across the northern United States to see the northern lights tonight, with visibility stretching from the Midwest to the Pacific Northwest.
According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, a G2 geomagnetic storm is currently impacting Earth, driven by a coronal mass ejection interacting with the planet’s magnetic field. This level of activity is strong enough to push aurora visibility well beyond its typical range, opening the door for sightings across states from Illinois and Michigan to Montana, Washington, and Oregon.
The best viewing window is expected between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m., when geomagnetic activity typically peaks and skies are darkest. Regions across Minnesota, Wisconsin, the Dakotas, and northern Michigan will have the highest likelihood of seeing bright, active displays. Farther west, states like Idaho, Washington, and Oregon could also see strong aurora activity, especially in darker rural areas.
Cities along this corridor—including Minneapolis, Green Bay, Fargo, Billings, Spokane, and even parts of Portland’s outskirts—may catch glimpses if skies remain clear and viewers can escape urban light pollution. The farther north and darker the location, the stronger and more colorful the display is expected to be.
Farther south, including northern Illinois and parts of Iowa and Nebraska, visibility becomes less certain but still possible during stronger surges of solar activity. In these areas, the aurora may appear as faint glows or subtle color bands low on the northern horizon.
Experts recommend heading to open areas away from city lights, allowing at least 20 minutes for eyes to adjust, and using smartphone cameras to capture enhanced views of the aurora. Long-exposure photos often reveal more vivid colors than what is visible to the naked eye.
Aurora activity may fluctuate throughout the night, with brief intensifications possible as waves of solar energy reach Earth. Additional chances could continue into early Wednesday, though intensity may vary as the geomagnetic storm evolves.
