Northern Lights Forecast: Aurora Borealis Expected to Remain Visible Across High Latitudes
The Northern Lights are expected to remain visible next week across high northern latitudes as the sun continues its current active phase. Solar Cycle 25 is approaching its peak in 2026, with heightened solar activity triggering more frequent geomagnetic storms that power the colorful aurora displays. Clear, dark skies and viewing from high-latitude locations like Alaska, Canada, Iceland, and Norway offer the best chances to see the lights. Viewers should monitor real-time forecasts from NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center for optimal timing. While June offers shorter viewing windows than winter months, aurora sightings remain possible in favorable conditions. Successful viewing requires patience, dark locations away from city lights, clear weather, and willingness to stay up late between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time.
Key facts
- Solar Cycle 25 is expected to peak in 2026, with peak sunspot activity reaching 161 in October 2024
- The best viewing locations include Fairbanks Alaska, Yellowknife Canada, Tromsø Norway, Reykjavik Iceland, and other high-latitude Arctic regions
- Aurora borealis is caused by charged solar particles colliding with oxygen and nitrogen in Earth's atmosphere
- Geomagnetic storms at level G3 or higher can bring aurora visible as far south as Alabama and Northern California
- Clear, dark skies and minimal light pollution are essential for aurora visibility; best viewing times are 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. local time
- Forecasters use the Kp index and NOAA's OVATION model to predict aurora location and intensity with 30-90 minute lead times
Limits of this briefing
Aurora sightings can never be guaranteed due to unpredictable solar activity and weather conditions. June offers shorter dark viewing windows than winter months, potentially limiting visibility opportunities.
Sources
- ABC News: Auroras could be visible in more states with forecast 'strong' geomagnetic storm Centre
- NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center: Aurora for Tonight and Tomorrow Night (Experimental) Centre
- University of Alaska Geophysical Institute: Aurora Forecast Centre
- Space.com: Where and when to see the northern lights in 2026 Centre
- Aurora Expeditions: Northern Lights 2026 Predictions & Complete Viewing Guide Centre