Ten states in the U.S. may have a chance to see the northern lights tonight, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The agency has forecast mild auroral activity along parts of the northern U.S. border for Saturday night, July 11, 2026.
The states with the best viewing potential include Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Vermont, and Maine. The aurora may be visible low on the horizon in these areas, depending on local weather conditions and light pollution.
NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center uses the Kp index to measure geomagnetic activity, with a forecast of Kp 4 for tonight, indicating moderate activity. Clear skies and dark locations away from city lights will improve visibility.
For the best experience, viewers are advised to look north after midnight and use a camera with a long exposure to capture the colors. The aurora is caused by solar particles interacting with Earth's magnetic field.
