Northern Lights Expected Across Ten U.S. States Friday Night

According to NOAA, Friday night will see a Kp index of five, a level that can produce a pleasing auroral display for those positioned in suitable areas. The agency’s forecast map lists northern Washington, the northern tip of Idaho, most of Montana, Wyoming near the Montana border, North Dakota, northern South Dakota, northern Minnesota, the northern tip of Wisconsin, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and northern Michigan as potential viewing zones, while Alaska will have a far higher likelihood of seeing the lights.

A moderate geomagnetic storm is also predicted, which could enhance the spectacle. By contrast, Saturday’s forecast drops to a Kp index of three, reducing the odds of a strong show. Observers are advised to look between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., seek dark, high-altitude spots, and note that a full moon may affect visibility.