Rare Valentine's Day Northern Lights Display Expected Across Northern U.S.

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The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center is forecasting a minor geomagnetic storm this Valentine's Day weekend, increasing the likelihood of visible auroras as far south as New York and Maine. The predicted activity stems from a combination of a recurrent coronal hole and a coronal mass ejection, which will contribute to a turbulent solar wind expected to impact Earth on February 14 and 15.

Why it matters

Seeing the northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, is a rare and awe-inspiring natural phenomenon for many Americans. While G1 storms are considered minor, they can still impact certain technologies like high-frequency radio communications and power grids, though the primary impact will be a beautiful display of nature's light show.

The details

The best viewing window is expected to be shortly after sunset on both Saturday and Sunday, extending into the overnight hours. However, conditions are anticipated to be particularly favorable on Sunday night, with clearer and darker skies maximizing visibility. The SWPC forecasts G1 storms, which are relatively minor, but sufficient to potentially produce auroral displays at lower latitudes than usual.

• The predicted activity is expected to impact Earth on Saturday, February 14 and Sunday, February 15.
• The best viewing window is shortly after sunset on both Saturday and Sunday, extending into the overnight hours.
• Conditions are anticipated to be particularly favorable on Sunday night, February 15.

What’s next

Skywatchers across a dozen U.S. states, including Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, and Maine, should keep an eye on the skies this Valentine's Day weekend for a potential display of the aurora borealis.