Northern Lights Forecast: See the Aurora Across 14 U.S. States Tonight

Rare Aurora Borealis Forecasted Following Significant Geomagnetic Storm

Stargazers and outdoor enthusiasts across the northern United States have a rare opportunity tonight, October 12, 2025, to witness the spectacular Aurora Borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights. Forecasters are predicting a significant geomagnetic storm that could push the visible aurora well beyond its typical polar range, making it potentially visible in as many as 14 states across the continental U.S.

This unusual visibility is the result of a powerful Coronal Mass Ejection (CME)—a large burst of plasma and magnetic field from the Sun’s corona—that impacted Earth’s magnetic field earlier today. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) has issued a forecast indicating a potential peak at Kp-6 (G2) storm levels, which is strong enough to bring the lights to lower latitudes.

The 14 States Under the Aurora Watch

For residents in the northern tier of the country, the chances of seeing the aurora are highest. Visibility depends heavily on local light pollution and cloud cover, but under optimal dark sky conditions, the following states are within the potential viewing zone for this event:

• Northeast: Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, New York
• Midwest: Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota
• Plains & Rockies: North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Idaho
• Pacific Northwest: Washington, Oregon
• West Coast: Northern California (especially the far northern counties)

If the storm intensity reaches the higher end of the forecast, states slightly further south, such as Iowa, Nebraska, and Pennsylvania, may also catch a glimpse low on the northern horizon.

Understanding the Forecast: Timing and Science

The key to this forecast is the Kp-index, a scale ranging from 0 to 9 that measures the disturbance of the Earth’s magnetic field. A Kp-index of 5 or higher indicates a geomagnetic storm. Tonight’s forecast of Kp-6 (G2) signifies a moderate storm, capable of driving the auroral oval significantly southward.

When to Look Up

The best window for viewing the Northern Lights in the U.S. is typically between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM local time. This is the period when the Earth’s magnetic field is optimally aligned to channel the solar particles toward the atmosphere.

The Science Behind the Spectacle

The aurora is created when energized particles from the Sun collide with gases in the Earth’s upper atmosphere. Oxygen atoms produce the common green and red colors, while nitrogen atoms create blue and purple hues. The intensity and color depend on the energy of the solar particles and the altitude at which the collisions occur. Tonight’s strong CME means a higher density of particles, leading to brighter, more widespread displays.

Expert Tips for Successful Aurora Viewing

Seeing the Northern Lights requires preparation and patience. Follow these expert guidelines to maximize your chances of witnessing the display:

1. Get Away from Light Pollution: This is the single most critical factor. Drive at least 30 minutes away from city lights, preferably to a designated dark sky area or a rural location with an unobstructed view to the north.
2. Look North: The aurora will appear on the northern horizon. Find a location free of tall trees or buildings in that direction.
3. Allow Time for Dark Adaptation: Your eyes need about 20 to 30 minutes in complete darkness to adjust fully. Avoid looking at phone screens or bright lights during this time.
4. Check the Cloud Cover: Even a strong aurora cannot penetrate thick clouds. Consult local weather forecasts for clear skies during the prime viewing window.
5. Use Your Camera: Often, a modern smartphone or DSLR camera can capture the fainter colors of the aurora better than the naked eye. Use long exposure settings (10–30 seconds) and a tripod for the best results.

“A Kp-6 event reaching this far south is a relatively rare occurrence, perhaps happening only a few times a year. If you live within the forecast zone, tonight is the night to bundle up, drive out, and experience one of nature’s most magnificent light shows,” advises Dr. Eleanor Vance, a space physics researcher.

Key Takeaways for Tonight, October 12, 2025

To ensure you don’t miss this celestial event, keep these critical points in mind:

• What: Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) visible due to a Kp-6 (G2) geomagnetic storm.
• Where: Potentially visible in 14 northern U.S. states.
• When: Best viewing window is 10:00 PM to 2:00 AM local time.
• How: Travel to a location with minimal light pollution and look toward the northern horizon.
• Source: Forecast confirmed by the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center.

What’s Next

While the peak intensity is expected tonight, residual activity from the geomagnetic storm may continue into the early hours of October 13, 2025. Those who miss the main event should monitor the SWPC’s 27-day forecast for future opportunities, as solar activity often follows cyclical patterns. However, events reaching Kp-6 levels are unpredictable and should be seized when they occur.