What: A minor (G1) geomagnetic storm from a recent solar flare may make the northern lights visible across parts of the northern U.S. late on Jan. 16 into the early hours of Jan. 17. Where: Best odds in the northern-tier states and Alaska, with possible southward reach if activity strengthens to G2. How: Face north, get away from light pollution, let your eyes adjust about 20 minutes, and use Night Mode or long-exposure settings to photograph the display.
How to See the Northern Lights From Up To 15 U.S. States This Weekend — When, Where and How to Spot Them
Philippe Bourseiller/GettyA polar aurora
An incoming solar storm could make the aurora borealis visible across parts of the northern United States late Friday night into the early hours of Saturday, Jan. 16–17. Forecasters at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center expect a minor (G1) geomagnetic storm from charged particles launched by a recent solar flare; conditions could intensify if faster solar winds arrive.
Steven Garcia/NurPhoto/ShutterstockThe Aurora Borealis over Minnesota
When To Look
The best viewing window is late on Friday evening (Jan. 16) through the predawn hours of Saturday (Jan. 17), with peak activity most likely before sunrise. The timing is aided by a waning crescent moon just days before the new moon on Jan. 18, which means darker skies and improved chances of spotting faint auroras. Space weather is unpredictable, so flexibility and patience are important.
Gallo Images ROOTS Collection/GettyAurora borealis display near Fairbanks
Where You’re Most Likely To See Auroras
If geomagnetic activity remains at G1 (minor), auroras may be visible across northern Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota and northern Michigan. If activity increases toward G2 (moderate), the glow could push farther south into states such as Wisconsin, Washington and Idaho and potentially reach northern Iowa or northern Illinois.
Jen Golbeck/SOPA Images/LightRocket via GettyAuroras near Key West
States with the strongest overall odds include Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan and Maine. In stronger bursts, faint glows might also appear low on the northern horizon in far northern parts of Wyoming, New York, Vermont and New Hampshire.
Robert Nemeti/Anadolu via GettyAuroras in Debrad, Slovakia
How To Spot And Photograph The Lights
Face north and move away from city lights to find the darkest sky you can. Look for soft, pale glows or slow, shimmering movement near the horizon — auroras are not always bright neon to the naked eye. Give your eyes about 20 minutes to adjust, and avoid bright screens or flashlights during that time.
Smartphone tips: use Night Mode (iPhone) or Pro/long-exposure modes on Android, turn off the flash, hold the phone steady and use a tripod if available. DSLR tips: use a wide-angle lens, set long exposures, high ISO as needed, and keep the camera steady to capture color and motion.
Final Notes
Seeing the northern lights is never guaranteed. Clear skies, low light pollution and a bit of luck all play a role. Monitor official updates from NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center for any changes to the forecast and safety guidance. Enjoy the show if it arrives — and remember to dress warmly and be prepared for cold, late-night conditions.
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