Find Your Local Forecast
Search a US city for detailed aurora borealis visibility prediction.
Aurora Borealis Forecast USA Tonight
Start with your city: compare its threshold with current geomagnetic conditions, then check clouds and darkness. Conditions can change quickly.
Check Aurora Borealis Visibility Near You
Enter your city or use location to see tonight's aurora borealis forecast.
Aurora Borealis Viewing Checklist
- Check Kp index reaches your location's threshold (see table below).
- Cloud cover below 30% significantly improves visibility.
- Use local twilight times to identify the darkest window.
- Find a dark location with clear northern horizon.
Aurora Borealis Visibility by US Region
Kp index threshold needed to see aurora borealis at each location.
| Region | Kp Needed | Planning note |
|---|---|---|
| Interior Alaska | Kp 2+ | Use with local sky conditions |
| Coastal Alaska | Kp 4+ | Use with local sky conditions |
| Pacific Northwest | Kp 7+ | Use with local sky conditions |
| Upper Midwest | Kp 7+ | Use with local sky conditions |
| Great Lakes | Kp 8+ | Use with local sky conditions |
| New England | Kp 7+ | Use with local sky conditions |
| Mountain West | Kp 9+ | Use with local sky conditions |
| Northeast | Kp 8+ | Use with local sky conditions |
How Our Aurora Borealis Forecast Works
We combine source data and local conditions as planning context for a viewing attempt.
Kp Index
NOAA space-weather products provide geomagnetic context. Higher activity can extend the auroral oval farther south.
Cloud Cover
Local weather data showing cloud percentage. Clear skies essential for aurora borealis viewing.
Moon Phase
Moonlight affects visibility. New moon periods offer darkest skies for aurora borealis photography.
Darkness Window
Astronomical twilight times for your location. Aurora borealis visible only in full darkness.
Aurora Borealis Forecast FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the aurora borealis forecast for tonight in USA?
Open your local forecast to compare current geomagnetic conditions, cloud cover, moonlight, and darkness. Check the source timestamp before making viewing plans.
How accurate is the aurora borealis forecast?
Forecast confidence changes with solar-wind observations and local weather. Short-range conditions are generally more useful than longer outlooks, but no forecast guarantees visibility.
What Kp index is needed to see aurora borealis in USA?
Alaska needs Kp 1-3 for aurora borealis. Northern states (Washington, Minnesota, Maine) need Kp 4-5. Southern states require Kp 7+ for aurora borealis visibility. Higher Kp means brighter, more widespread displays.
When is the best time to see aurora borealis in USA?
The best aurora borealis viewing in USA is between 10 PM and 2 AM during winter months (September-March) when nights are longest. Check our forecast for tonight's optimal viewing window based on darkness and geomagnetic activity.
How do I get aurora borealis alerts?
Download our free Aurora Forecast app for instant push notifications when aurora borealis is likely visible at your location. Set your Kp threshold and receive alerts for clear sky opportunities.
What causes aurora borealis?
Aurora borealis occurs when charged particles from the Sun collide with gases in Earth's atmosphere. These collisions release energy as colorful light displays. Solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) trigger stronger aurora activity.
Can I photograph aurora borealis with my phone?
Yes, modern smartphones can capture aurora borealis. Use Night Mode or Pro mode with 10-30 second exposure, ISO 800-3200, and a tripod. iPhones and Samsung Galaxy phones have dedicated night photography features that work well for aurora.
How long does aurora borealis last?
Aurora borealis displays can last from a few minutes to several hours. Individual curtains and arcs may pulse for 10-30 minutes. Major geomagnetic storms can produce aurora visible for the entire night from dusk to dawn.
What colors can aurora borealis be?
Aurora borealis most commonly appears green (oxygen at 100-300km altitude). Red aurora occurs at higher altitudes (300km+), while blue and purple come from nitrogen. Camera sensors often capture more color than the naked eye.
Where is the best place to see aurora borealis in USA?
Alaska and northern US locations usually need less geomagnetic activity than lower latitudes. Dark skies, a clear northern horizon, and current conditions still determine whether a display is visible.
What is the difference between Kp and G scale for aurora?
Kp index (0-9) measures geomagnetic activity globally. G scale (G1-G5) indicates geomagnetic storm intensity. Kp 5 equals G1 (minor storm), Kp 7 equals G3 (strong storm). Both predict aurora visibility but Kp is more precise for forecasting.
Does the Moon affect aurora borealis visibility?
Yes, moonlight reduces aurora visibility by brightening the sky. New moon periods offer the darkest skies and best viewing conditions. A full moon can wash out fainter aurora displays, though bright Kp 6+ aurora remains visible.
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Aurora forecast notifications for selected locations.