What is causing the northern lights to be visible in the U.S.?

A powerful solar storm has triggered a geomagnetic storm, allowing the northern lights to be visible in up to 18 U.S. states.

How long will the northern lights be visible?

The northern lights are expected to be visible for the next two nights, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Home / Weather / Vibrant Northern Lights Dazzle Midwest as Solar Storm Hits

Vibrant Northern Lights Dazzle Midwest as Solar Storm Hits

Q: Where can people see the northern lights in the U.S.?

The best viewing locations for the northern lights are in the northern and upper Midwest states, including Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan.

7 Aug

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Summary

20 U.S. states catch glimpse of northern lights
Geomagnetic storm could disrupt communications, power grids
Best viewing in northern and upper Midwest states

Vibrant Northern Lights Dazzle Midwest as Solar Storm Hits

On August 7, 2025, a powerful solar storm hit Earth, triggering a geomagnetic storm that allowed the northern lights to be visible in up to 18 U.S. states. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the geomagnetic activity reached a Kp index of 6, meaning the auroras were brighter and visible further from the poles than usual.

The solar storm, caused by a coronal mass ejection from the sun, has the potential to disrupt satellites, communications systems, and even ground-based technologies like power grids. However, NOAA has classified the storm as a minor-moderate geomagnetic event, indicating that the effects should be manageable.

For the next two nights, skywatchers in the northern and upper Midwest states, including Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan, will have the best chance of seeing the vibrant green and red glow of the northern lights. Experts advise people to travel to dark locations away from city lights to get the best views of the stunning auroras.

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