A rare and breathtaking natural spectacle is set to light up the night skies across parts of the United States tonight, June 2, 2025. Thanks to a severe geomagnetic storm triggered by a powerful solar event, the northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, could be visible in as many as 24 U.S. states. From the Pacific Northwest to the Northeast and as far south as Alabama and Northern California, skywatchers have a unique opportunity to witness this dazzling display of colorful lights. Here’s everything you need to know about this extraordinary event, including where and when to catch the aurora and what causes this stunning phenomenon.
A Rare Opportunity to See the Northern Lights
The northern lights are typically seen in high-latitude regions near the Arctic, such as Alaska, Canada, and parts of Scandinavia. However, a strong geomagnetic storm can push the auroral oval—the area where the lights are visible—farther south, making it possible for people in lower latitudes to experience this celestial show. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center, a severe geomagnetic storm classified as a G4 (on a scale of G1 to G5) is underway, creating ideal conditions for aurora sightings across a wide swath of the U.S. This storm could bring vibrant displays of green, purple, and red lights to the night sky, offering a rare treat for millions of Americans.
The states with a chance to see the northern lights tonight include Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Alaska, and potentially parts of Northern California and northern Alabama. For those in these regions, tonight could be a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness the aurora without traveling far from home.
What Causes the Northern Lights?
The northern lights are a natural phenomenon caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with Earth’s atmosphere. This particular event was sparked by a coronal mass ejection (CME), a massive burst of plasma and magnetic fields from the sun, which erupted on Friday, May 30, 2025. When these charged particles reach Earth, they collide with gases in the atmosphere, such as nitrogen and oxygen, causing them to glow and create the vibrant colors associated with the aurora. The strength of the geomagnetic storm determines how far south the lights can be seen, and this week’s G4 storm is powerful enough to make the aurora visible across a large portion of the U.S.
According to NOAA, the geomagnetic storm reached severe levels early Sunday morning, June 1, 2025, and is expected to continue through late Monday, June 2. The storm’s intensity is measured using the Kp index, which ranges from 0 to 9, with higher values indicating stronger auroral activity. NOAA predicts a Kp index of up to 7.67 over the next 24 hours, suggesting bright and widespread auroral displays.
Where and When to Watch the Northern Lights
If you’re in one of the 24 states listed, tonight is your best chance to see the northern lights, particularly between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, when auroral activity is typically at its peak. The best viewing conditions are on clear, dark nights away from city lights, which can wash out the aurora’s colors. Rural areas, state parks, or open fields with a clear view of the northern horizon are ideal spots for skywatching.
For those in urban areas like Chicago or Philadelphia, you may still catch a glimpse, but you’ll need to find a location with minimal light pollution. Some experts suggest using a smartphone camera to capture the aurora, as it can pick up colors that may be less vivid to the naked eye. In Chicago, for example, Montrose Point has been a popular spot for aurora chasers, as seen during a similar event in October 2024.
If cloud cover obscures the sky tonight, there’s still hope. NOAA indicates that strong geomagnetic activity could persist into Monday night, though the chances of seeing the aurora may decrease as the storm weakens. Checking local weather forecasts and NOAA’s three-day aurora forecast can help you plan the best time to look up.
Tips for Viewing the Northern Lights
To maximize your chances of seeing the northern lights, follow these simple tips:
- Find a Dark Location: Head to a rural area or a designated dark-sky park to avoid light pollution. The darker the surroundings, the better your view of the aurora.
- Look North: The northern lights typically appear on the northern horizon, so orient yourself to face north for the best view.
- Be Patient: Auroral displays can be unpredictable, with bursts of activity that come and go. Plan to spend at least an hour watching the sky.
- Use a Camera: A smartphone or DSLR camera with a long-exposure setting can capture the aurora’s colors more vividly than the naked eye.
- Check the Forecast: Visit NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center for real-time updates on auroral activity and geomagnetic storm conditions.
The Science Behind the Storm
This geomagnetic storm is part of the sun’s 11-year solar cycle, and we are currently at the peak of Solar Cycle 25, which began in 2019. During this period, solar activity, including solar flares and CMEs, is more frequent and intense, leading to more opportunities to see the northern lights. The sunspot responsible for this week’s storm, known as AR3664, is particularly large—comparable in size to the sunspot that caused the historic Carrington Event of 1859, which produced auroras visible worldwide. While this storm won’t reach that extreme level, it’s still a significant event that could produce memorable displays.
Beyond their beauty, geomagnetic storms can impact technology on Earth. Severe storms like this one may cause minor disruptions to power grids, GPS systems, and radio communications. However, NOAA has notified key operators, and most critical infrastructure is equipped to handle such events, minimizing potential impacts.
A Memorable Moment for Skywatchers
The northern lights are a bucket-list experience for many, and tonight’s geomagnetic storm offers a rare chance for millions of Americans to witness this natural wonder. Social media platforms like X are buzzing with excitement, with users sharing tips and expressing awe at the possibility of seeing the aurora in places as far south as Alabama and California. One user posted, “The northern lights, normally only for places like Iceland or Alaska, are coming to town. Thanks to a geomagnetic storm that hit early today, the show might stretch as far south as Northern California and Alabama.”
For those lucky enough to catch the display, the northern lights are a reminder of the sun’s incredible power and the beauty of our planet’s interaction with it. Whether you’re an avid stargazer or simply curious, tonight is the perfect time to step outside, look up, and marvel at the wonders of the universe.
How to Stay Updated
To stay informed about the northern lights and geomagnetic storm activity, visit NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center for the latest forecasts and alerts. You can also follow space weather updates on platforms like X, where enthusiasts and experts share real-time information and photos of auroral displays. For more tips on viewing the northern lights, check out resources from NASA or local astronomy clubs in your area.
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to witness the northern lights in the U.S. Grab a blanket, find a dark spot, and prepare to be amazed by one of nature’s most spectacular shows. Happy skywatching!
Sources:
- NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center: https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/
- The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com
- Space.com: https://www.space.com
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