Northern Lights Visible in 20 US States Wednesday

Residents across a significant portion of the United States may have a chance to witness the stunning spectacle of the northern lights on Wednesday, September 10, 2026. A powerful solar storm is expected to cause the aurora borealis to extend further south than usual, potentially reaching as far as 20 states.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center issued alerts indicating that geomagnetic storm activity could be strong enough to bring the aurora into latitudes typically unaccustomed to seeing it. While visibility is not guaranteed and will depend on clear skies and local light pollution, areas in the northern U.S. are considered prime viewing locations.

Northern Lights Potential Viewing Areas

States that could experience aurora visibility include those in the northern tier, such as Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, New York, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and Washington. Further south, even states like Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, and Colorado might catch a glimpse of the lights under optimal conditions.

The U.S. Space Weather Prediction Center monitors solar activity, which can cause geomagnetic storms. These storms occur when charged particles from the sun, ejected during events like coronal mass ejections (CMEs), interact with Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere. The resulting energy excites atmospheric gases, producing the vibrant colors associated with the aurora.

"We are anticipating a G4 storm, which is strong," stated Dr. Amelia Vance, a senior space weather scientist at NOAA. "This level of activity increases the likelihood of auroral displays reaching lower latitudes than we typically see. It's a fantastic opportunity for those who have never witnessed the northern lights before, but clear skies are essential."

For those hoping to catch the display, NOAA recommends heading to areas with minimal light pollution, such as rural locations or national parks. Checking the aurora borealis forecast closer to the time of the event can also provide more precise information on visibility probabilities. The best viewing times are usually a few hours before and after local midnight.

The recent solar activity is part of the sun's natural cycle, which is currently ramping up towards its peak, expected around 2025. This means more frequent and intense solar events, including CMEs that can trigger geomagnetic storms, are anticipated in the coming months and years. While these events can disrupt satellite communications and power grids, they also offer breathtaking celestial displays like the northern lights. Residents are advised to be patient and look towards the northern horizon for the best chance to see the geomagnetic phenomenon.