More than 20 states in the United States can enjoy a dazzling display of the aurora tonight (November 11-12). Remarkably, the auroras occur when the solar winds collide with the Earth’s atmosphere, creating variable patterns of light. These displays often contain a combination of colors, including green, pink, red, and purple.
Two coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are expected to hit Earth late Monday, potentially triggering strong (G3) geomagnetic storms, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). A third and even stronger CME is also predicted to follow.
This third eruption from a massive X5.1 solar flare – the strongest yet recorded in 2025 – is expected to reach Earth around 7:00 a.m. EST (12:00 GMT) on November 12.
In response, NOAA issued a G4 geomagnetic storm watch, indicating the potential for widespread auroras visible much farther south than usual. While cloudy skies obscured the view for many last week, the weather is expected to be more favorable this time around.
Which US states could see the aurora borealis tonight?
If you are asking “where can I see the Northern Lights?” NOAA’s latest aurora forecast map has the answer. According to the agency, the aurora could be visible in at least 21 US states.
States expected to see the aurora include Alaska, North Dakota, Minnesota, Montana, Wisconsin, Michigan, Maine, South Dakota, Idaho, Vermont, Washington, New Hampshire, Wyoming, New York, Iowa, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Nebraska, Ohio, Illinois and Indiana.
That means even residents in parts of the Midwest and Northeast could enjoy stunning displays if the skies remain clear.
When is the best time to watch the Northern Lights in the US?
NOAA’s three-day geomagnetic storm forecast suggests increased activity will continue overnight. The best viewing times are expected to be:
4:00 PM – 10:00 PM EST (2100 – 0300 GMT): Mild (G1) to moderate (G2) thunderstorms possible
10:00 PM – 1:00 AM EST (0300–0600 GMT): Strong (G3) geomagnetic storm levels possible
During these peak hours, the aurora borealis could appear as glowing ribbons, arcs, or soft colored clouds floating across the northern horizon.
How can you increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights?
Even if you’re not in an ideal location, a few simple techniques recommended by space.com can help you spot or photograph the aurora borealis more easily:
Find a dark place facing north: Move as far away from city lights as possible and look toward the northern horizon for the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
Use your phone’s camera: Your camera’s sensor can often detect faint auroras before your eyes do. Try scanning the sky with your camera to find the right direction.
Let your eyes adjust: To develop night vision, spend at least 30 minutes in the dark.
Dress warmly: Temperatures can drop quickly at night, and seeing the aurora borealis often involves standing outdoors for long periods of time.
Be patient: Auroras can appear suddenly, so staying out a little longer can make a difference.
Which apps can help track aurora activity?
To stay updated in real time, space.com recommends downloading a Northern Lights forecast app that provides alerts based on your location, such as My Aurora Forecast & Alerts or Space Weather Live, both available for iOS and Android.
These apps can alert you when the aurora visibility index spikes in your area, making sure you don’t miss the show early on.
