Concord, NH – A rare chance to spot the Northern Lights may unfold across parts of New Hampshire late Thursday night into early Friday, January 8–9, as increased solar activity pushes auroras farther south than usual.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a G1-level geomagnetic storm is expected to peak overnight. The storm is being driven by enhanced solar wind associated with a coronal mass ejection (CME) and a co-rotating interaction region (CIR)—solar disturbances that can expand auroral visibility into lower latitudes.
In New Hampshire, auroras are expected to be faint and low on the northern horizon, meaning viewers will need dark, unobstructed skies. The best chances will be in northern and rural areas, including Pittsburg, Colebrook, Lancaster, Littleton, and parts of Coös County, where light pollution is minimal. Elevated terrain in the White Mountains may also provide better viewing conditions.
Those in more populated areas such as Concord, Manchester, Nashua, and Portsmouth could still see a subtle glow if skies remain clear, but city lights may significantly reduce visibility. Experts recommend heading away from urban centers and allowing time for eyes to adjust to darkness.
Cloud cover will be the biggest factor determining success. Even strong geomagnetic storms cannot be seen through clouds, making clear skies essential. Aurora watchers are encouraged to monitor local weather forecasts alongside NOAA space weather updates leading up to and during the overnight hours.
For many viewers this far south, the aurora may appear as a dim arc or pale glow rather than vivid colors. Cameras and smartphones using Night Mode or long-exposure settings often capture greens and purples not easily visible to the naked eye.
If conditions align, this could be New Hampshire’s first aurora-viewing opportunity of 2026.
