Northern Lights Forecast: These States Might See Aurora Borealis Tonight

Forbes - Mar 3rd, 2025

A small group of northern U.S. states, including Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, are expected to experience minor auroral activity on Monday night. According to NOAA, the northern lights will be visible in these areas, with the best viewing times between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. Observers are advised to find high vantage points away from light pollution for optimal viewing. This event follows a year of strong geomagnetic storms, with 2024 marking a peak in northern lights activity due to solar maximum conditions.

The northern lights, or aurora borealis, have been particularly active due to the sun's solar maximum, which is expected to persist through 2025. This period of heightened solar activity is part of the sun's 11-year cycle and has led to significant auroral displays, such as the powerful geomagnetic storm in May 2024. The increased activity offers more opportunities for enthusiasts to witness this natural phenomenon, with experts suggesting trips to regions like Scandinavia for optimal viewing in upcoming years.

Nasa Geomagnetic Storm Aurora Borealis Solar Maximum 2024 Wisconsin Noaa 2025 Idaho Montana Northern Lights North Dakota Minnesota

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RATING

7.6

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The news story provides a clear and accurate account of the northern lights forecast, supported by reputable sources like NOAA and NASA. Its strengths lie in its clarity, timeliness, and public interest appeal, offering practical information that is immediately relevant to readers. However, the article could improve its transparency by directly citing its sources and providing more context on the methodology behind the aurora forecasts. While it presents a balanced perspective, including additional viewpoints on the cultural significance of the northern lights could enhance its depth. Overall, the article effectively informs readers about a natural phenomenon with broad appeal, though its impact is primarily limited to individual interest and action rather than broader societal change.

Accuracy

The article claims that the northern lights will be visible in specific northern U.S. states and provides a forecast from NOAA. These claims appear to be accurate, as they align with typical aurora forecasts during geomagnetic activity. However, the story's assertion of a 'low likelihood' for aurora visibility could benefit from further verification with NOAA's current data. The article also mentions a significant geomagnetic storm in May 2024 and ongoing solar maximum conditions, which are factual based on NASA's solar activity reports. Overall, the story provides a precise account of the northern lights forecast, but some details, such as specific viewing conditions and comparative visibility in Alaska and Canada, need confirmation.

Balance

The article maintains a balanced perspective by focusing on the scientific and observational aspects of the northern lights. It does not delve into controversial or speculative territory, sticking to factual information about aurora visibility. However, it could have included additional viewpoints, such as cultural or historical significance of the northern lights in various regions, to provide a more rounded narrative. The omission of these perspectives does not significantly impact the story's balance but limits its depth.

Clarity

The article is clearly written, with a logical flow and straightforward language that makes it accessible to a general audience. It effectively explains where and when the northern lights might be visible and offers practical advice for observers. The structure is coherent, and the tone is neutral, which aids comprehension. However, including a map or visual aid would further enhance clarity by providing a visual reference for the areas mentioned.

Source quality

The article references NOAA and NASA, which are authoritative sources for information on aurora forecasts and solar activity. These organizations are reliable and recognized in the field of space weather, lending credibility to the story. However, the article could improve by directly citing these sources or providing links to their forecasts and reports, enhancing transparency and allowing readers to verify the information independently.

Transparency

The article could have been more transparent by explicitly citing the NOAA and NASA sources it references. While it provides useful information, it lacks direct links or references to these organizations' reports, which would help readers verify the claims. Additionally, the methodology behind the aurora forecast and any potential conflicts of interest are not discussed, which slightly reduces its transparency.