Minneapolis, Minnesota – A vivid aurora is expected over Minnesota skies Sunday night due to a severe (G4) geomagnetic storm, but viewing conditions may be far from ideal as wildfire smoke from Canada continues to blanket the region.
According to the National Weather Service Twin Cities, thick smoke in the atmosphere will be slow to clear, especially across the metro area. However, a model forecast suggests some partial clearing across western Minnesota late tonight, possibly offering brief glimpses of the northern lights for those staying up past midnight. A narrow break in the smoke could also allow limited visibility in parts of the western Twin Cities metro just after sunset.
The aurora is strongest in northern Minnesota, particularly near Bemidji and Duluth, but dense smoke could dull or completely obscure the display. Residents hoping to catch the spectacle are advised to head west or north of the metro and find high, dark areas away from city lights. Conditions in southeastern Minnesota, including Rochester, are expected to remain too smoky for optimal viewing.
Smoke is likely to linger into Monday, keeping air quality and visibility low. Another update will follow if skies clear enough to significantly improve visibility across the state.
