How to View Two Consecutive Northern Lights Events
The northern lights are expected to be visible on two consecutive nights, with increased intensity on the second night.
Skywatchers in the United States may observe northern lights on Monday, June 30, and Tuesday, July 1, 2025. The auroras are forecast to be visible from several locations, with moderate intensity levels on the Kp scale: a rating of three on Monday and five on Tuesday.
Northern Lights Forecast
The northern lights are anticipated to be visible on both June 30 and July 1, with higher intensity expected on the second night. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the aurora on June 30 is rated at three on the Kp scale, indicating moderate activity. The July 1 aurora is rated at five, which may result in more vibrant displays across a wider area of the United States. The Kp scale measures aurora intensity from zero to nine. Activity in the three to five range can make auroras visible farther from the poles, increasing accessibility for observers.
On July 1, visibility is expected to expand, allowing more locations in the U.S. to observe the aurora. The stronger aurora on the second night may provide more favorable viewing conditions.
Best Locations to Watch
Timing and location are important for observing the northern lights. On June 30, the aurora may be visible in northern regions of the United States, including northeast Washington, northern Idaho, Montana, and Alaska. North Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin are also likely to have good visibility. As intensity increases on July 1, visibility may extend further south. Northern areas of South Dakota, Iowa, Michigan, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine may also have opportunities to observe the aurora.
The likelihood of seeing the aurora increases on July 1, as the display is expected to reach further south.
How to Watch and Capture the Northern Lights
The best viewing times for the northern lights are during the dark hours of the night, typically between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time. Observers are encouraged to find locations away from light pollution, such as city lights, which can reduce aurora visibility. Clear, dark skies without clouds, fog, or rain provide optimal conditions.
To photograph the aurora, many modern smartphones offer a "Night Mode" setting suitable for low-light photography. Activating this setting can help capture images of the northern lights. With appropriate timing, location, and favorable weather, observers may be able to document this natural phenomenon.