The Northern Lights, which are also known as the Aurora Borealis, may grace the skies over parts of the United States tonight, Tuesday, June 25, 2025. This space weather event could lead to visible auroras across at least 14 U.S. states, possibly more.
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What’s Causing the Aurora Activity?
According to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC), a moderate G2-class geomagnetic storm is expected, with the Kp index forecast to peak around 5.67. The Kp index, which ranges from 0 to 9, measures geomagnetic activity, and a reading above 5 means strong chances of visible auroras well beyond typical polar regions.
The UK Met Office has also confirmed the likelihood of auroral activity tonight, stating a fast solar wind is expected to arrive late on June 25. However, short nights and lingering twilight near the June solstice could limit visibility in some areas.
Where Will the Northern Lights Be Visible Tonight?
If skies are clear and conditions are right, residents in the following 14 U.S. states may catch a glimpse of the auroras, especially from dark-sky areas with minimal light pollution. These states are listed in order from most likely to least likely to experience visible auroras tonight:
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Alaska
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Minnesota
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North Dakota
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Montana
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Maine
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Michigan
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Wisconsin
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Vermont
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New Hampshire
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Washington
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Oregon
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Idaho
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New York
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South Dakota
While the chances are highest in Alaska and the northern tier states, auroras can sometimes surprise viewers farther south, so keep your eyes on the sky even if you're just beyond the predicted viewing zone.
Best Time to Watch the Northern Lights
Your best chance to see the aurora will be around 1 a.m. local time, when the sky is darkest. Remember to:
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Look northward, ideally from a high point or open space.
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Avoid city lights and other sources of light pollution.
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Check real-time aurora forecast maps or space weather apps for updates.
What Do Auroras Look Like?
The Aurora Borealis often appears as glowing curtains or rippling waves of green, purple, or pink light, dancing across the northern sky. They may begin subtly and intensify over time, so patience is key.
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Conclusion
Auroras are beautiful but unpredictable. While NOAA’s models suggest activity tonight, visibility depends on multiple factors like cloud cover, atmospheric clarity, and geomagnetic conditions.