Aurora is seen here tonight amid a severe geomagnetic storm

Topline

Much of the northern U.S. states could catch a glimpse of the northern lights Thursday evening, according to a forecast from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. This predicts a strong occurrence of the natural phenomenon in the midst of a potentially severe geomagnetic storm.

Important facts

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Where will the Northern Lights be visible on Thursday evening?

Parts of the northern United States are expected to have a high chance of seeing the Northern Lights, including Alaska and the northernmost parts of Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Michigan and Wisconsin. In the central and southern parts of these states, as well as in Wyoming, South Dakota and northern Iowa, the likelihood of observing the phenomenon is slightly lower. More than a dozen other states have a chance to see the Northern Lights in some areas: Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania , Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington.

How can you observe the Northern Lights?

The best Northern Lights viewing is usually between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. in areas where there is little or no light pollution and the sky is clear. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration also recommends that aurora viewers view the auroras from a vantage point, such as a hilltop.

How to photograph the lights?

Fast shutter speeds and night mode are crucial for those trying to photograph the Northern Lights with their smartphone.

Important background

If Thursday night's forecast proves accurate, viewers in the northern United States will have one of the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights in recent months, when KP indices of four or five were typically predicted. Fortunately, for those who miss the Northern Lights this time, solar activity is expected to increase as the peak of Solar Cycle 25 is expected to occur between late 2024 and early 2026. The cycle may lead to an increase in sunspots and geomagnetic storms, which could contribute to stronger aurora forecasts.

Further reading

In Photos: Northern Lights Seen Around the World and in 30 U.S. States (Forbes)