Published on: Oct 02, 2025 07:10 pm IST

A geomagnetic storm watch has been issued for at the moment, permitting northern lights visibility throughout the US. Check the listing of states the place it is going to be seen.

Skywatchers throughout the US could also be in for a rare spectacle this week, as a geomagnetic storm brings the northern lights to a number of states within the nation. The NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a G3(sturdy) geomagnetic storm look ahead to October 2.

A geomagnetic storm is predicted to light up the northern lights throughout a number of US states.(Representative Image: Unsplash)

Also Read: Northern Lights to Autumn Star: Night skies to mild up this week in these states

When will Northern Lights be most seen within the US states?

NOAA additionally said that geomagnetic storm situations are anticipated to proceed all through the night, fueled by the continuing affect of a high-speed photo voltaic wind storm, based on Space.com. The stream is presently barreling towards Earth at speeds of 700 to 800 kilometres per second, elevating the probability of seeing the aurora borealis additional south than standard.

According to NOAA’s Kp index forecast, the geomagnetic storm is predicted to peak between 5 pm and eight pm EDT with the Kp index reaching an estimated 5.67, inserting it firmly inside G2levels, as per Space.com.

List of states set to expertise Northern Lights

The following are the US states that may doubtlessly witness the phenomenon on Thursday.

Alaska

Washington

Idaho

Montana

North Dakota

Minnesota

Wisconsin

According to Space.com, if G2 (Moderate)geomagnetic storm ranges are reached, the auroras may prolong additional south than initially anticipated, doubtlessly turning into seen in areas corresponding to Michigan, New York, northern Illinois, and different mid-latitude states.

Tips for viewing northern lights within the US

To maximize probabilities of seeing the auroras, skywatchers are suggested to go to a location removed from metropolis lights the place air pollution is minimal or nonexistent. Choose a spot with a transparent, northward-facing view and an unobstructed horizon.
The finest time to watch the northern lights is between midnight and a couple of am native time. Skywatchers have to be affected person as auroras typically seem in waves, beginning faintly earlier than turning into extra vibrant.