The atmospheric light show could be visible in 18 states, and skywatchers in dark areas should be able to spot it.

WASHINGTON — Skywatchers in 18 states may be treated to a colorful light show Tuesday evening as the northern lights could appear across North America, according to forecasts. 

The aurora borealis phenomenon began late Monday, and is expected to last through Tuesday night. 

The ethereal lights that make up the celestial show may be visible further south than is typical, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center.


What causes Aurora Borealis?

The light show is caused by “a long-duration M2.7 flare that peaked at approximately 30/2002 UTC,” according to the agency. “An associated full-halo coronal mass ejection (CME) was observed in coronagraph imagery.” 

In layman’s terms: the sun is constantly shooting out charged particles. But sometimes, it emits a particularly violent stream of energy known as solar wind, during solar flares or “coronal mass ejections.” 

When these energetic solar winds hit the earth’s atmosphere, they collide with the gasses in the upper atmosphere and charge them. As that energy dissipates, it lets out light that we can see. 

The different gasses produce different colors, which is why an aurora borealis can shift from green and blue to red and purple. 


What states will see the northern lights tonight? 

Millions of people across much of the northern United States are in the possible path of Tuesday night’s northern lights display, according to NOAA’s latest prediction. 

Viewers in 18 states may be able to see the lights if they’re in a sufficiently dark environment:

AlaskaMontanaNorth DakotaMinnesotaWisconsinMichiganMaineSouth DakotaVermontNew HampshireIdahoWashingtonOregonNew YorkWyomingIowaNebraskaIllinois


How to see auroras

Northern lights forecasts can be found on NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center website or an aurora forecasting app.

Consider aurora-watching in a quiet, dark area away from city lights. NASA’s Kelly Korreck recommended skygazing from a local or national park. And check the weather forecast because clouds can cover up the spectacle entirely.

Taking a picture with a smartphone camera may also reveal hints of the aurora that aren’t visible to the naked eye.