Watch: Stunning aurora erupts above observers
Beautiful northern lights burst with colors above stargazers in Alaska.
Parts of the northern United States may get a glimpse of something in the sky even more dazzling than fireworks on New Year’s Eve: the northern lights.
NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center issued a G1 storm watch, which is only a minor show but still powerful enough some states might catch a glimpse.
“Aurora may be visible at high latitudes, i.e., northern tier of the U.S. such as northern Michigan and Maine,” the alert said
The northern part of Vermont is in the potential view line, however snowy skies may block the view.
Map of where Northern lights may be visible tonight
In the forecast, the following states have the best chance of seeing on Dec. 31
- Washington
- Idaho
- Montana
- North Dakota
- Minnesota
- Wisconsin
- Michigan
- Alaska
However, the following states are in the view line, which shows where people still may have a chance of seeing the phenomena.
- Oregon
- Wyoming
- South Dakota
- Iowa
- New York
- Vermont
- New Hampshire
- Maine
Even when you are in the potential view line for seeing the northern lights, it does not guarantee they will be visible.
When is the best time to see the northern lights?
The northern lights are typically most visible between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. according to NOAA.
How to see the northern lights
As always, dark skies make for better stargazing.
“We typically suggest getting away from cities and find a open field or hilltop to lay out under the stars and wait for the show to really peak at the late evening or early morning hours,” Massachusetts Institute of Technology Technical Instructor and Observatory Manager Tim Brothers said in a past interview with Wicked Local.
He continued, “In New England, heading for a local conservation area or park that keeps lighting off at night is ideal. Another option is a coastline away from the larger cities — the benefit being that the constellation where you will see most of the ‘shooting stars.'”
Places to check for northern lights forecast
If you want a chance at seeing the Northern Lights, here are some websites you can monitor the sun’s activity:
Aurora Alerts
The Space Weather Prediction Center
Space.com
Aurora forecast page (NOAA)
Aurora Reach
