The Breakdown: A spectacular celestial event is on the horizon for millions of Americans tonight. According to the latest forecasts from the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a G1-class geomagnetic storm is expected to bring the mesmerizing Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) into view for approximately 15 U.S. states this evening, December 9, 2025.
Why is this Happening? This vibrant display is the result of heightened solar activity. A significant coronal mass ejection (CME)—a burst of plasma and magnetic field from the sun—has been tracking towards Earth and is predicted to interact with our planet's atmosphere today. This interaction excites the gases in our atmosphere, creating the stunning dancing lights of green, pink, and violet.
Who Can See It? While the Aurora is typically an Arctic phenomenon, the intensity of this solar storm pushes the "view line" much further south. Residents in the following states have the highest chance of witnessing the spectacle, weather permitting:
Alaska
Washington
Montana
North Dakota
South Dakota
Minnesota
Wisconsin
Michigan
New York
Maine
(And potentially parts of Idaho, Wyoming, and Vermont)
Best Time to Watch: For the best viewing experience, skywatchers are advised to look north between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM local time. You will need to get away from city lights to a dark, open area. Even if the lights aren't dancing directly overhead, a faint greenish glow on the northern horizon may be captured clearly using a smartphone camera with "Night Mode" enabled.
Don't miss this opportunity to witness one of nature's most beautiful light shows right from your backyard!
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