Northern Lights Alert: These 10 States Could See Aurora Borealis Tonight

Forbes - Mar 13th, 2025
Open on Forbes

Several northern U.S. states are expected to experience auroral activity on Wednesday night, providing a chance for observers in certain areas to see the northern lights. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts a Kp index of four, indicating increased auroral activity. This phenomenon could be visible as far south as central South Dakota and southern Minnesota, with viewing prospects improving the further north one is situated. However, the auroral activity is predicted to wane by Thursday night.

The occurrence of northern lights is linked to a solar maximum, the peak of the sun's 11-year solar cycle, which was notably strong in 2024. This led to heightened auroral activity, including one of the most intense geomagnetic storms in two decades. With NASA forecasting the solar maximum to extend into 2025, auroral displays are likely to remain frequent. For optimal viewing, experts recommend high vantage points with minimal light pollution and clear skies between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.

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RATING

6.8
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides a clear and timely overview of an upcoming opportunity to observe the northern lights, supported by credible sources like NOAA. Its focus on practical advice for viewing and photographing the aurora enhances its appeal to readers interested in natural phenomena. However, the piece could benefit from a broader exploration of perspectives, including cultural or environmental contexts, to enrich its narrative and increase public interest. While the article maintains high readability and engages its audience with relevant information, its impact is primarily on personal decision-making rather than broader societal discussions. Greater transparency in methodology and source attribution could further strengthen the article's credibility and accuracy.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The article provides a reasonably accurate portrayal of the forecasted auroral activity, citing the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for its prediction of a Kp index of four. This aligns with general expectations for heightened auroral activity, although specific verification of this exact forecast for the mentioned date would strengthen accuracy. The article also correctly identifies regions where the aurora borealis might be visible, consistent with typical auroral visibility patterns. However, the mention of the solar maximum extending into 2025 and its impact on auroral activity should be cross-referenced with NASA's forecasts to ensure precision. The claim about a significant geomagnetic storm last May could benefit from additional details or sources to substantiate its impact on auroral visibility. Overall, while the core claims are plausible, some details require further verification to confirm their accuracy fully.

6
Balance

The article focuses predominantly on the scientific and observational aspects of the northern lights, providing a technical perspective on the phenomenon. While it effectively covers the factual elements, it lacks a broader range of viewpoints, such as cultural or historical perspectives on the aurora borealis, which could enrich the narrative. The piece could be perceived as somewhat limited in scope, omitting potential environmental or societal impacts of increased auroral activity. By not addressing these additional perspectives, the article may present a slightly imbalanced view that prioritizes scientific information over other relevant angles.

8
Clarity

The article is clearly written, with straightforward language that effectively communicates the key points about auroral activity to a general audience. The structure is logical, beginning with the forecast and then providing practical advice for observing and photographing the northern lights. The tone remains neutral and informative, avoiding sensationalism. However, some technical terms, such as 'Kp index,' are not explained in detail, which could be a barrier to understanding for readers unfamiliar with auroral science. Overall, the article maintains clarity and coherence, making it accessible to most readers.

8
Source quality

The article cites NOAA, a reputable and authoritative source for weather and atmospheric phenomena, lending credibility to its claims about auroral forecasts. The inclusion of expert advice on viewing and photographing the northern lights further supports the article's reliability. However, the piece lacks direct quotes or statements from these sources, which would enhance the transparency and authority of the information presented. While the reliance on NOAA is appropriate, introducing additional expert opinions or data from other scientific organizations could provide a more rounded and robust foundation for the article's claims.

5
Transparency

The article does not explicitly disclose its methodology for gathering information or the potential limitations of its forecasts. While it mentions NOAA as a source, it does not explain how the Kp index is calculated or what specific factors contribute to the forecasted auroral activity. There is also no mention of potential conflicts of interest or biases that might affect the reporting. Greater transparency about the sources of information and the methods used to predict auroral activity would enhance the article's credibility and allow readers to better understand the basis of its claims.

Sources

  1. https://www.gi.alaska.edu/monitors/aurora-forecast
  2. https://www.softservenews.com
  3. https://www.space.com/live/aurora-forecast-will-the-northern-lights-be-visible-tonight
  4. https://www.spaceweatherlive.com/en/auroral-activity/aurora-forecast.html
  5. https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/products/3-day-forecast