Abdelrahman
Overview
Residents in the northern reaches of the continental United States may have the opportunity to witness the northern lights this Sunday, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasting heightened visibility of the aurora borealis.
Aurora borealis illuminating Frederick Sound in Southeast Alaska.
Essential Information
The NOAA has predicted a Kp index of three for Sunday’s northern lights—on a scale that reaches nine—indicating that the aurora will appear “brighter” as it extends away from the poles.
According to NOAA, areas where the lights can be seen will be most striking when the Kp index ranges from three to five.
On Monday, the chances of witnessing the northern lights remain favorable, with NOAA forecasting a Kp index of four.
Where to Catch a Glimpse of the Northern Lights?
Alaska is expected to be the prime location for viewing the northern lights on Sunday, based on NOAA’s predictions (refer to the map below). While sightings in the contiguous United States are less common, NOAA suggests that parts of several states—including Idaho, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, Washington, and Wisconsin—may experience favorable conditions for observing the aurora.
Northern lights forecast for Sunday, Feb. 16.
Best Times for Viewings
If you’re hoping to catch the northern lights, NOAA advises that your best chances are between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. To optimize your view, seek a location facing north, away from urban light pollution, preferably at a higher elevation such as a hilltop.
Tips for Photographing the Northern Lights
For those looking to capture stunning images of the northern lights, experts consulted by National Geographic recommend using a tripod to stabilize your camera and opting for a wide-angle lens. Lenses that perform well in low-light situations, with an aperture or F-stop of four or less, are preferable. For smartphone photographers, using a tripod is also advisable for stability, while disabling the flash and employing night mode can enhance the results.
Background Information
NASA has reported that aurora activity has surged to a 500-year high in 2024, making the northern lights increasingly visible. This phenomenon is anticipated to persist through 2025 and into 2026, as the solar maximum phase in the sun’s 11-year cycle leads to more solar flares, enhancing the visibility of the aurora borealis in the U.S.
Further Reading
