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Northern Lights Aurora Borealis Forecast: April 15-17, 2025
Sky-watchers, get ready! A strong geomagnetic storm, triggered by a coronal mass ejection from the sun, is bringing the spectacular Aurora Borealis—the Northern Lights—to a wider swathe of North America than usual, from April 15-17, 2025.
Where to See the Northern Lights
While the best viewing will be in Canada and Alaska, the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center predicts the aurora could be visible as far south as parts of the northern United States, including Washington, Oregon, Montana, the Dakotas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and potentially even further east.
The University of Alaska Fairbanks' aurora forecast map provides detailed predictions showing the expected reach of the aurora's glow for each night. Check their website for the most up-to-date predictions.
When to Look
The ideal viewing time is between 10 PM and 2 AM local time, particularly around midnight. However, a full moon could slightly diminish visibility. The peak activity is expected on April 16th, 2025, with a lesser display possible on April 17th.
Tips for Aurora Viewing
- Escape light pollution: Head to a dark, rural location away from city lights for the best viewing experience.
- Look north: The aurora borealis typically appears in the northern sky.
- Use your phone camera: Cameras often pick up the auroral colors better than the naked eye. Try a long exposure setting.
- Check the NOAA forecast: NOAA’s Aurora Dashboard offers real-time updates and 30-minute forecasts.
Understanding the Aurora
The aurora is caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with Earth's atmosphere. These collisions create the glowing lights, often appearing as shimmering curtains of green, sometimes with hints of red, blue, or purple in stronger storms.
Conclusion
This rare opportunity to see the Northern Lights across a large area of North America promises a breathtaking celestial spectacle. Grab your cameras, escape the city lights, and prepare to be amazed! Remember to check the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center and the University of Alaska Fairbanks' aurora forecast for the most accurate and up-to-date information on visibility in your area.
