Ten states in the northern U.S. might be able to see the northern lights from Sunday night to Monday morning, based on a forecast from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. They also expect some small geomagnetic storms.

Key Facts

The forecast for the aurora borealis on Sunday night shows a Kp index of four out of nine. This means the aurora will be brighter and “can look very nice” if you’re in the right place to see it.

NOAA’s three-day forecast also says there may be some small geomagnetic storms on Sunday night.

The northern lights appear because geomagnetic activity causes ions to hit Earth’s atmosphere, making colorful displays.

Sunday’s forecast comes after a Kp index of three on Saturday, when the aurora could be seen as far south as the border between North Dakota and South Dakota.

Where Can You See the Northern Lights on Sunday Night?

The northern lights might be visible in Alaska, North Dakota, most of Montana, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and parts of Washington, Idaho, South Dakota, Michigan, and Maine, according to NOAA’s forecast. (Check the viewline map below.)

What’s the Best Way to See the Northern Lights?

To get the best view, NOAA suggests finding a place with a clear view of the north, away from city lights. The northern lights are usually most visible between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., when geomagnetic activity is strongest.

How to Take Photos of the Northern Lights?

If you’re using a smartphone, turn on night mode and lower the shutter speed to capture the lights moving. For a regular camera, use a wide-angle lens and a tripod.

Important Background

The sun is at its “solar maximum,” the peak of an 11-year cycle of activity like solar flares and coronal mass ejections. This has caused more northern lights displays in recent months, and experts say this will continue into early 2026. Solar activity increased before the solar maximum, including one of the strongest geomagnetic storms in May, which brought one of the best northern lights shows in 500 years. As recently as March, the Kp index reached six, and almost half of the U.S. could see the aurora.

Published: 5th May 2025

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