Des Moines, IA – Iowans could witness a dazzling display of the Northern Lights on Monday night into Tuesday morning, as geomagnetic activity brings the aurora borealis to areas as far south as Iowa.
According to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, the Kp index is expected to reach 6-7, which significantly increases the chances of seeing the Northern Lights. The optimal viewing period is between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. Central Time, assuming the skies remain clear.
The aurora borealis, caused by solar particles colliding with Earth’s magnetic field, creates vivid lights in the night sky. Green, pink, and red hues are common during strong geomagnetic storms. For the best viewing experience, residents should head to dark areas away from artificial lights. Monitoring local weather forecasts for cloud cover and using online aurora activity trackers can enhance the viewing chances.
