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Equinox Boosts Northern Lights Chances as NOAA Flags Minor Geomagnetic Storms

NOAA expects mid-range Kp values Sept. 21–23, raising the chance that auroras extend well south of their usual range.

Overview

  • NOAA's forecast calls for Kp around 4 with G1-level geomagnetic activity during Sept. 21–23.
  • Auroras could reach into northern U.S. states including Montana, Minnesota, North Dakota, Wisconsin and possibly Illinois, with potential glows at similar latitudes in Canada and northern Europe.
  • The prime viewing window is roughly 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. local time from dark locations with a clear view toward the northern horizon.
  • Visibility is highly conditional, as cloud cover, light pollution and a bright moon can wash out faint displays even during active periods.
  • Forecasters attribute the activity to coronal hole high-speed streams, with most of Alaska falling in a high-likelihood zone for sightings.