Northern Lights Visible Across 28 US States Tonight

Skywatchers are getting ready for tonight’s celestial show: the northern lights. Twenty-eight states should be able to see the auroras tonight.

Northern Lights Expected Across the United States

A significant portion of the northern United States may be able to see the eagerly anticipated northern lights on Monday night, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The solar storm arrived ahead of planned, according to a post on X from the National Weather Service Seattle. The Kp index was predicted to peak at 8 between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m. earlier this morning, so the peak may have occurred earlier. The weather office stated, “There is a potential we could start witnessing the aurora early this evening.”

Solar Storm Arrives Earlier Than Forecast

A solar storm has already reached Earth ahead of schedule. The Kp index was predicted to peak between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m. earlier this morning, so it may have peaked earlier. We might be able to witness the aurora this evening. #wawx — January 19, 2026, NWS Seattle (@NWSSeattle)

Due to the expected arrival of a coronal mass ejection (CME) toward Earth, the weather agency issued a G4 Watch for the evening of January 19.

G4 Geomagnetic Storm Watch Issued

All around the United States, the northern lights will be visible. From New York to Washington State and as far south as Alabama to Northern California, one can take in the celestial show.

States and Regions With Aurora Visibility

Forecasters predict that the northern regions of Britain, including Scotland, Northern Ireland, and northern England, will be able to see the aurora borealis as it moves into the Atlantic. It is likely that these lights will be visible further south, even though cloud cover and rain may make it difficult to see them.

International Aurora Visibility Outlook

Given the Southern Hemisphere, regions of Australia and southern New Zealand may be able to see the auroras. This time of year, the British Met Office predicted brief periods of darkness, which would reduce visibility in certain regions.

Forecasters estimate that tonight’s Kp index will be eight out of nine, indicating a powerful geomagnetic storm that may cause the northern lights to be visible farther south than usual.

Strong Geomagnetic Activity Expected

Frequently asked questions

1. Why are the northern lights visible this evening?

A major geomagnetic disturbance has been caused by a powerful solar storm that arrived at Earth earlier than anticipated due to a coronal mass ejection (CME).

2. What does an 8 Kp index signify?

On a scale of 0 to 9, the Kp index gauges geomagnetic activity. A number of 8 indicates a very intense storm, allowing auroras to be seen far farther south than usual.

3. Which US states are likely to witness the northern lights this evening?

Up to 28 states—from Washington and Northern California in the west to New York in the east and as far south as Alabama—may be able to see auroras.

4. When is the ideal time to see the aurora?

Since the storm arrived early, auroras may appear soon after sunset, although the greatest activity was predicted to occur between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m. local time.

5. Under what circumstances is it easier to see auroras?

The likelihood of witnessing the aurora is significantly increased by clear weather, dark skies away from city lights, and an unhindered view of the northern horizon.

Conclusion

The northern lights may be seen throughout much of the United States and other regions of the world tonight due to a rare and strong solar storm that is creating the conditions for an amazing aurora show.

Skywatchers are urged to gaze up early, locate black spots, and take advantage of this breathtaking cosmic event while conditions permit, since a G4 geomagnetic storm watch and a high Kp index forecast are in effect.

Disclaimer:

Aurora visibility depends on weather conditions, light pollution, and changes in solar activity. Forecasts are estimates, and sightings are not guaranteed.