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NOAA Forecasts Northern Lights Visibility Across Northern U.S. States Thursday Night
NOAA issued a Kp index of four for Thursday night and a Kp index of five for Friday night, with visibility expected in multiple northern states and much of Alaska.
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U.S. border. The agency forecast visibility in northern Washington, the northern tip of Idaho, northern Montana, North Dakota, northern South Dakota, northern Minnesota, northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
A high chance of visibility was also forecast for a large portion of Alaska’s interior on Thursday night. Geomagnetic storm impacts, which can strengthen auroral displays, were not forecast for Thursday night. NOAA issued a Kp index of five for Friday night, with visibility expected to stretch a little farther south than on Thursday.
The moon will be in a waning crescent phase and about 16% illuminated on Thursday, reducing moonlight interference. m. m.
High vantage points can also help observers. Smartphone users should avoid using flash and utilize night mode and low apertures if their devices allow. Wide-angle lenses and tripods are recommended for traditional cameras.
June has marked a somewhat active month for the northern lights after the sun reached the height of its 11-year solar cycle in 2024. Semi-consistent northern lights showings that have persisted since 2024 are expected to decrease in activity by next year.
