NOAA forecasts that a coronal mass ejection arriving Nov. 12 could produce a G2-level geomagnetic storm and a Kp index around 6, potentially making the northern lights visible from parts of Oregon. The best viewing window is roughly 4 p.m. Nov. 12 to 4 a.m. Nov. 13 PST. However, widespread cloud cover across the state (about 52–91% depending on region) may limit sightings. Check NOAA SWPC and local NWS updates and head to dark, northern-facing locations if skies clear.
Will Oregon See the Northern Lights Tonight? NOAA Forecasts G2 Aurora for Nov. 12
NOAA forecasts that a coronal mass ejection arriving Nov. 12 could produce a G2-level geomagnetic storm and a Kp index around 6, potentially making the northern lights visible from parts of Oregon. The best viewing window is roughly 4 p.m. Nov. 12 to 4 a.m. Nov. 13 PST. However, widespread cloud cover across the state (about 52–91% depending on region) may limit sightings. Check NOAA SWPC and local NWS updates and head to dark, northern-facing locations if skies clear.
11:00 AM, 11/13/2025Science
Aurora Alert: Possible Northern Lights Over Oregon on Nov. 12
Residents of Oregon may have a chance to see the aurora borealis on the evening of Nov. 12 after a solar storm is expected to increase geomagnetic activity. The NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) projects the aurora's southern "viewline" — the southernmost horizon where the lights might appear — will cross much of the northern United States, placing nearly two dozen states, including parts of Oregon, within range.
What’s happening on the Sun
The SWPC expects a coronal mass ejection (CME), a large release of plasma and magnetic field from the Sun, to reach Earth around midday on Nov. 12. When charged particles from a CME interact with Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere, they can produce the colorful light displays known as the aurora borealis (northern lights), the National Weather Service explains.
Forecast details
- Kp index: Forecast Kp = 6/9. A Kp of 6–7 typically corresponds to a bright, active aurora visible farther from the poles than usual.
- Geomagnetic storm level: Rated G2 (moderate) on NOAA’s geomagnetic storm scale.
- Best viewing window: NOAA projects the aurora will be most visible roughly from 4 p.m. PST on Nov. 12 through 4 a.m. PST on Nov. 13.
Will clouds or location affect what you see?
Yes. The National Weather Service forecasts significant cloud cover across Oregon on the night of Nov. 12, which may limit visibility. Statewide probabilities range from about 52% to 91% cloud cover. Regional forecasts include:
- Willamette Valley: 62–82% chance of cloud cover
- Southern Oregon: 57–91%
- Parts of eastern Oregon: 52–77%
- Oregon Coast: 73–90%
Visibility depends on both the aurora’s strength and local sky conditions. If skies clear in your area, look toward the northern horizon away from city lights. For the best chance, travel to darker, higher-elevation locations and check live updates from NOAA SWPC and your local National Weather Service office.
Tips for viewing and photographing the aurora
- Find a dark location away from light pollution; face north.
- Use a tripod and a camera with manual exposure: start with ISO 800–3200, shutter 5–20 seconds, aperture as wide as possible.
- Dress warmly and allow your eyes 20–30 minutes to adjust to the dark.
Sources: NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, National Weather Service.
Reporter: Ginnie Sandoval, Oregon Connect, Statesman Journal (GSandoval@gannett.com, X: @GinnieSandoval).