How to Watch Back-to-Back Northern Lights for a Third Time This Week

The sky knows how to steal the spotlight—and this weekend, it’s set to do it again.

After several days of geomagnetic storms, the northern lights are making their third appearance this week, promising another dazzling show for skywatchers across the U.S. If you’ve dreamed of catching the aurora borealis without leaving the country, this might be your chance.

Why Are the Northern Lights Appearing So Often?

The aurora borealis is more than a light show—it’s the result of powerful space weather. Geomagnetic storms happen when streams of solar wind collide with Earth’s magnetic field, stirring up electric currents and sending charged particles into our atmosphere.

When these particles meet oxygen and nitrogen high above us, the sky glows with greens, purples, and reds. The stronger the storm, the farther south the lights can be seen.

NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center reports that storms earlier this week reached strong levels, and their lingering effects could keep the auroras active through the weekend.

When Can You See the Northern Lights?

Forecasts point to Friday, September 5 through Sunday, September 7 as prime viewing nights.

The activity level, measured on the Kp index (0–9 scale), is expected to be around 4–5. That means solid chances for bright auroras, especially at higher latitudes. If skies stay clear, these nights could be your best opportunity to experience the phenomenon without booking a trip to the Arctic Circle.

Where Will the Lights Be Visible?

This weekend’s forecast extends farther south than usual. Skywatchers in more than a dozen U.S. states could spot auroras glowing low on the northern horizon.

• Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming
• North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa
• Wisconsin, Michigan, New York
• Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine

If you live in one of these states—or can travel a short distance north—step outside after dark and keep your eyes on the northern sky.

Best Tips for Watching the Aurora

You don’t need special gear to see the northern lights. Your eyes are enough.

• Leave the city lights. Light pollution can wash out faint auroras—head for darker skies.
• Check the clouds. Clear conditions are key. Clouds are the main deal-breaker.
• Be patient. The lights often come in waves—wait a bit if they fade and they may return brighter.

If this is your first time, the experience can feel otherworldly—calm, electric, and unforgettable.

How to Photograph the Northern Lights

No pro camera needed. A modern smartphone will do the job.

• Use Night Mode. It helps your camera gather more light.
• Keep it steady. Use a tripod or rest your phone on a solid surface to avoid blur.
• Aim north. Point your lens where the glow appears and take multiple shots.

With a little patience, you’ll capture images worth sharing.

Why This Weekend Matters

U.S. states this far south don’t often get repeated aurora displays in a single week. It’s a rare reminder of how alive—and unpredictable—our skies are.

If you’ve never seen the northern lights, now is the time to look up. Space weather can be forecast, but the aurora is fleeting—here one moment, gone the next.

Grab a jacket, find a dark spot, and let the sky surprise you. This might be the night you’ll never forget.

FAQs

When are the northern lights visible?
Friday, Sept. 5 through Sunday, Sept. 7, weather permitting.

Do I need special equipment?
No. The aurora is visible to the naked eye in dark, clear conditions.

What is the Kp index?
A 0–9 scale that indicates geomagnetic activity. A Kp of 4–5 suggests good viewing at higher latitudes.

What’s the best viewing tip?
Get away from city lights and give your eyes time to adjust to the dark.