The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are expected to be visible across a wide portion of the United States on the nights of April 15 and 16, 2025, due to heightened geomagnetic activity.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), this auroral display is the result of strong solar activity, specifically coronal mass ejections from the sun.
The aurora forecast includes optimal visibility in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Partial visibility may also extend into parts of Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, New York, and Pennsylvania.
For the best chance to see the aurora, NOAA advises heading away from city lights and looking up between 10 PM and 2 AM local time. This timeframe offers the most active aurora displays. However, a full moon could slightly dim the visual effect of the lights.
The Aurora Borealis occurs when electrons from space interact with Earth’s magnetic field and collide with gases in the upper atmosphere. These collisions produce the glowing lights often seen in polar regions, resembling a natural neon light show in the sky.
NOAA’s Aurora Dashboard offers real-time updates and 30-minute forecasts for aurora activity. Check it before heading out to maximize your chances of catching the show.
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