Northern Lights Forecast Shows Limited Visibility in Northern U.S. States Sunday Night
NOAA predicts a low probability of aurora sightings in several northern U.S. states on Sunday, while Alaska may see higher chances despite limited darkness.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued a forecast indicating a low likelihood that the aurora borealis will be visible from parts of the northern United States on Sunday night. The map highlights northern Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula as areas with a modest chance of seeing the lights. Alaska is expected to have a higher probability, though the region’s late summer sunsets may keep the sky too bright for clear observation.
NOAA advises anyone hoping to view the phenomenon to travel as far north as possible and select a dark site with an unobstructed view of the northern horizon, away from city lights. The agency notes that auroral activity typically peaks in the hours surrounding midnight, recommending observers look between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time.
"The aurora is most active in the hours just before and after midnight," NOAA said.
The agency did not anticipate any significant space-weather events that would enhance visibility further south.