Fri Jan 02 03:10:00 UTC 2026: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Northern Lights May Dazzle Some US States on New Year’s Eve

Washington, D.C. – The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a G1 geomagnetic storm watch, indicating that the aurora borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, may be visible in parts of the northern United States on New Year’s Eve.

While the G1 designation is considered a minor storm, it’s still powerful enough to potentially bring the ethereal light display to lower latitudes than usual. Residents in the northern tier of the U.S., including states like northern Michigan and Maine, have the highest chance of witnessing the aurora. The northern part of Vermont is also within the potential viewing area.

“Although the view is not guarnteed, we typically suggest getting away from cities and find a open field or hilltop to lay out under the stars and wait for the show to really peak at the late evening or early morning hours,” said Massachusetts Institute of Technology Technical Instructor and Observatory Manager Tim Brothers.

The Northern Lights are typically most vibrant between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time. Clear skies are essential for optimal viewing. Even within the viewing line, visibility is not guaranteed, but dark skies away from city lights greatly improve the chances of seeing the aurora.

For those hoping to catch a glimpse of this celestial spectacle, experts recommend seeking out open fields, hilltops, or coastlines away from urban areas. Parks or conservation areas that minimize nighttime lighting are also ideal locations.

Several websites offer real-time monitoring of solar activity to help predict aurora visibility:

  • Aurora Alerts
  • Space Weather Prediction Center
  • Space.com
  • Aurora forecast page (NOAA)
  • Aurora Reach

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