Aurora chasers, get ready! The spectacular light show of last night’s solar flare may be repeated tonight (November 12), potentially dazzling across more than just northern states. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts a strong to severe geomagnetic storm due to a coronal mass ejection (CME) launched yesterday by an intense X5.1 class solar flare. This powerful CME is expected to intensify geomagnetic activity, reaching strong (G3) or even severe (G4) levels overnight. The U.K. Met Office goes further, issuing an extreme G5 watch for the period between 7:00 a.m. and 6:59 p.m. EST (12:00 – 23:59 GMT).
While last night’s display—triggered by previous CME impacts —was breathtaking, stretching from coast to coast and even reaching as far south as Mexico, the current storm could be even more widespread. If conditions are favorable and skies remain clear, auroras might extend much farther south than predicted, potentially captivating viewers across most of the United States.
Where To Look for Auroras Tonight
Based on NOAA’s aurora forecast map, the northern lights might grace the skies above these 17 states tonight:
- Alaska
- Washington
- North Dakota
- Montana
- Minnesota
- Idaho
- South Dakota
- Wisconsin
- Oregon
- Michigan
- Vermont
- New Hampshire
- Wyoming
- New York
- Iowa
- Nebraska
- Illinois
Prime Viewing Times
The northern lights could start appearing across these states as soon as darkness falls tonight (November 12-13). Keeping a watchful eye on the sky throughout the evening, especially in areas with clear, dark skies, is recommended. NOAA’s three-day forecast suggests the best chances of witnessing auroras during these periods:
- 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. EST (0000-0300 GMT): Strong G3 level storming possible
- 10 p.m. – 4 a.m. EST (0300–0900 GMT): Moderate G2 level storming possible
Aurora Hunting Tips
For those fortunate enough to live in one of these states, here’s how to maximize your chances of catching the celestial display:
- Choose North: Find a location facing north with an unobstructed view of the horizon as far from city lights as possible.
- Phone Camera Power: Your phone camera can detect faint auroras before your eyes can, so scan the sky and let it guide you.
- Dark Adaptation: Allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness for at least 30 minutes for enhanced night vision.
- Dress Warmly: Aurora hunting often involves waiting patiently in chilly conditions, so dress accordingly!
Downloading a space weather app like “My Aurora Forecast & Alerts” (available for iOS and Android) can provide location-specific aurora forecasts and alerts.
Remember to enjoy the experience—even if the auroras don’t appear as boldly as predicted, gazing at the night sky is always a rewarding endeavor.
