Northern Lights Could Dazzle 23 U.S. States Tonight – Here’s How to Catch the Show

A powerful coronal mass ejection (CME) impact has set the stage for a potentially stunning northern lights display across the U.S. tonight (June 1, 2025). With geomagnetic storm conditions intensifying, auroras may be visible farther south than usual, bringing an unforgettable sky show to 23 states. Read on for the best locations, peak viewing times, and expert aurora-watching tips.

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Hahsitha

6/1/20251 min read

Geomagnetic Storm Brings Aurora Visibility to 23 States

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Earth is currently experiencing a strong geomagnetic storm following a CME impact in the early hours of June 1.

📌 Expected Storm Levels: G1 to G4
📌 Peak Kp Index: 7.67 (High Auroral Activity)
📌 Best Viewing Time: 1–2 a.m. (local time)

If the storm reaches G3 or G4 levels, the northern lights could extend into high-latitude U.S. states, including Michigan, Maine, and Minnesota.

States with Northern Lights Visibility Tonight

🌌 Most Likely to See Auroras:
Alaska
Montana
North Dakota
Minnesota
Wisconsin
Michigan
South Dakota
Vermont
New Hampshire
Maine

🌌 Possible Aurora Viewing:
Idaho
Washington
Oregon
New York
Massachusetts
Connecticut
Rhode Island
Nebraska
Iowa
Wyoming
Illinois
Indiana
Pennsylvania

Auroras are unpredictable, meaning displays could move farther south than anticipated, or fail to appear due to unfavorable conditions.

How to See the Northern Lights Near You

Find a dark, north-facing vantage point – City lights reduce visibility.
Best time to view: 1–2 a.m. local time (before dawn).
Use an aurora tracking app – Download apps like “My Aurora Forecast & Alerts” or “Space Weather Live” for location-based updates.

Want real-time aurora forecasts? Stay up-to-date with NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center’s live blog.

Final Thoughts: Will You Catch the Show?

With Earth’s magnetic field reacting to space weather, tonight’s aurora could be one of the best sightings of the year. If you capture an amazing shot, send it to spacephotos@space.com for a chance to be featured!

Will the northern lights be visible where you live? Drop your location and let’s track the sky together! 🌌✨