Topline
Mild auroral activity has been forecast for Saturday night in the northern U.S., according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which is predicting some areas along the northern border will have a chance of seeing the natural phenomenon.
Key Facts
NOAA has issued a Kp index of four, meaning the aurora may be “quite pleasing” to look at for people in the right areas Saturday night.
No geomagnetic storms, which can contribute to more auroral activity, are forecast for Saturday night.
Auroral activity will significantly dampen by tomorrow, according to NOAA, which forecasts a Kp index of one for Sunday night.
Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible?
States and areas included in Saturday’s northern lights forecast are northeastern Washington, the northern tip of Idaho, northern Montana, North Dakota, the northernmost stretches of South Dakota, northern Minnesota, northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Alaska will have better chances of seeing the northern lights, with the odds of visibility improving the farther inland observers are.
What’s The Best Way To See The Northern Lights?
The hours between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. generally provide the best chances of seeing the northern lights, as do high vantage points and places with little to no light pollution.
What’s The Best Way To Photograph The Northern Lights?
Tripods can improve stability when taking photos of the northern lights. If applicable, low apertures and wide-angle lenses can also help grab good shots of the natural phenomenon. Smartphone users should avoid using flash and instead use night mode.
Key Background
The northern lights have had a fairly active June. Two years ago, displays hit a 500-year record as the sun reached the peak of its 11-year solar cycle. The more time passes from the height of the cycle, the less auroral activity is seen, which is why scientists expect 2026 to be the last year of somewhat frequent northern lights showings in the U.S.
Further Reading
Aurora Dashboard (NOAA)