### Northern Lights Set to Dazzle Skies Across the U.S. Amid Solar Activity The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are expected to be visible across more than a dozen U.S. states due to a significant geomagnetic storm caused by solar activity. This phenomenon is a result of a burst of plasma and energy from the sun, which is anticipated to create ideal conditions for viewing the auroras. Skywatchers in states such as Montana, North Dakota, and parts of the Midwest are particularly encouraged to look up tonight, as the display could be more vibrant than usual due to the intensity of the solar storm [https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2025/12/09/northern-lights-tonight-forecast/87682412007]. ### Overview of the Northern Lights Visibility Forecast 1. **States Affected**: The northern lights may be visible in up to 17 states, including Montana, North Dakota, and parts of the Midwest [https://www.themirror.com/weather/northern-lights-visible-states-december-1550047]. 2. **Timing**: The best viewing opportunities are expected tonight, December 9, and possibly extending into tomorrow [https://time.com/7339417/northern-lights-tonight-aurora-borealis-forecast]. 3. **Cause of Visibility**: A geomagnetic storm, rated G3, is responsible for the enhanced visibility of the auroras, resulting from solar ejections impacting Earth [https://www.forbes.com/sites/jamiecartereurope/2025/12/07/northern-lights-sudden-strong-aurora-alert-on-monday-night-for-22-states]. 4. **Viewing Conditions**: Clear skies away from city lights will provide the best chances for viewing the northern lights [https://www.irishstar.com/culture/northern-lights-december-forecast-visible-36370119]. ### Supporting Data on Aurora Visibility - **Geomagnetic Storm Rating**: The current storm is classified as G3, indicating a strong geomagnetic disturbance that enhances auroral activity [https://www.forbes.com/sites/jamiecartereurope/2025/12/07/northern-lights-sudden-strong-aurora-alert-on-monday-night-for-22-states]. - **States with Best Visibility**: - Montana - North Dakota - Minnesota - Wisconsin - Michigan - Parts of New York and Idaho [https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2025/12/08/northern-lights-forecast-december/87666217007]. - **Potential Viewing Window**: The auroras are expected to be visible from the evening of December 8 through the night of December 9 [https://todayheadline.co/northern-lights-may-be-visible-in-17-states-and-maybe-more-dec-8-9]. ### Conclusion: A Rare Opportunity to Witness the Northern Lights In summary, **tonight presents a unique opportunity for skywatchers across the U.S. to witness the northern lights**, thanks to a significant geomagnetic storm. The following points encapsulate the key takeaways: 1. **Widespread Visibility**: The auroras may be seen in up to 17 states, particularly in the northern regions [https://www.themirror.com/weather/northern-lights-visible-states-december-1550047]. 2. **Optimal Viewing Conditions**: Clear skies and dark locations will enhance the viewing experience [https://www.irishstar.com/culture/northern-lights-december-forecast-visible-36370119]. 3. **Timing**: The best chances for viewing are tonight, with potential continuation into tomorrow [https://time.com/7339417/northern-lights-tonight-aurora-borealis-forecast]. This event is a reminder of the beauty of natural phenomena and the impact of solar activity on our planet.