Topline<\/p>\n
The northern lights could be visible from several states in the northern U.S. on Monday night, according to a forecast from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the lights could possibly be enhanced from expected geomagnetic storms.<\/p>\n
A coronal mass ejection from the Sun could cause the aurora to appear farther south than usual on Monday night, according to NOAA.<\/p>\n
Getty ImagesKey Facts<\/p>\n
NOAA predicted a Kp index of five out of nine for Monday night, meaning the northern lights could appear farther from the magnetic north pole than usual and brighter with more \u201cmotion and formations.\u201d<\/p>\n
There is also a chance of minor geomagnetic storms on Monday night, according to NOAA\u2019s three-day forecast, caused by a coronal mass ejection that left the Sun on Saturday.<\/p>\n
What Are Coronal Mass Ejections?<\/p>\n
Coronal mass ejections are emissions of solar material from the Sun\u2019s corona\u2014its outermost layer of atmosphere. This material includes plasma and embedded magnetic field that is typically stronger than normal solar winds, according to NOAA. When this material reaches Earth, it can interact with the planet\u2019s magnetosphere and cause geomagnetic storms. The storms predicted for Monday night are expected to be mild\u2014just a G1 on NOAA\u2019s scale out of five. However, even minor storms can cause the northern lights to appear visible farther south than usual, and potentially in the contiguous United States.<\/p>\n
Where Could The Northern Lights Be Visible?<\/p>\n
The aurora could be visible from most states along the U.S.-Canadian border, according to NOAA\u2019s forecast. These include all of North Dakota, along with northern parts of Washington, Idaho, Montana, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan\u2019s Upper Peninsula. Northern parts of South Dakota also have a slight chance of seeing the northern lights, according to NOAA, though chances will generally be low across the Lower 48. Most of Alaska has a much very high likelihood of seeing the lights, however, according to NOAA. <\/p>\n
NOAA’s aurora forecast map for Monday night.<\/p>\n
NOAAWhat\u2019s The Best Way To View The Northern Lights?<\/p>\n
Experts at NOAA recommend prospective viewers get as close as possible toEarth\u2019s magnetic north pole located in Canada. Viewers should find a good vantage point, ideally with a clear view of the northern sky and far from any city lights. Viewers should also time their trips and plan to watch when the aurora is typically most active\u2014between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.<\/p>\n
What\u2019s The Best Way To Photograph The Northern Lights?<\/p>\n