What to Expect for the Northern Lights on Sunday Night
Skywatchers across the northern United States may be treated to a display of the Northern Lights this Sunday night. The latest forecast from the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) indicates elevated geomagnetic activity could push the aurora southward enough to become visible in a wide swath of states. While visibility depends on local weather and light pollution, several northern locales stand a good chance to catch a shimmering green, and perhaps red or purple, curtain dancing in the night sky.
How the Forecast Works
The aurora is caused by charged particles from the sun colliding with the Earth’s atmosphere. When solar storms or high-speed solar wind streams reach Earth, they energize the magnetosphere and push the auroral oval toward mid-latitudes. Forecasters use the KP index, a scale from 0 to 9, to gauge potential visibility. On Sunday night, forecasters are watching KP values in the moderate range, with local conditions—such as clear skies and low light pollution—being the deciding factors for observers in residential areas and rural landscapes alike.
States Most Likely to See It
Forecasts suggest that 15 northern states could have a chance at observing the aurora if skies cooperate. In practice, those with truly dark skies in or near the northern fringes of their states will have the best opportunities. Typical hot spots include locations in:
- Montana and North Dakota
- Minnesota and Wisconsin
- Michigan and Idaho
- Wyoming and Nebraska
- South Dakota and Colorado
- Iowa and parts of New York
- Vermont, New Hampshire, and northern Maine (depending on latitude)
Even if you don’t reside in these areas, brief, vivid auroral glows aren’t impossible in nearby regions during strong enough solar winds. The best chances remain in rural areas with dark, unobstructed horizons.
Viewing Tips to Maximize Your Chances
To increase the likelihood of catching the aurora Sunday night, try these practical tips:
- Find a dark, open site away from city lights. A hillside or open field with a clear northern horizon works well.
- Check weather conditions in advance. Clear skies are essential; a thin mist or early frost can obscure the aurora.
- Dress warmly and bring a chair or blanket. Aurora hunting is a waiting game that can last for hours.
- Bring a camera with a wide-angle lens and a tripod. Set exposure times between 5 and 15 seconds, with a low ISO to reduce noise.
- Use aurora forecast apps or NOAA space weather alerts to monitor changes in solar wind and KP index in real time.
Even if the aurora is faint, you may still catch a short-lived glow or a subtle green arc. For many, the experience is about patience, quiet, and a momentary glimpse of a cosmic light show that connects our planet to the sun’s activity.
Safety and Weather Considerations
Nighttime viewing in January requires warm clothing and a plan if temperatures drop or weather turns. Always tell someone your viewing location and expected return time, especially if you’re heading into remote areas. If winter storms or heavy cloud cover roll in, the aurora may be obscured. In coastal zones, strong winds can also affect outdoor comfort and safety. Keep an eye on local weather advisories and adjust plans as needed.
Where to Stay Informed
For the most accurate, up-to-the-minute aurora information, monitor official forecasts from the Space Weather Prediction Center and regional meteorology services. Local science centers and astronomy clubs often host viewing events when the forecast looks favorable, providing opportunities to learn more about solar activity and the science behind the lights.
