Northern lights may be visible in 20 US states, including Michigan. Where, when to see it.

Northern Lights Visible in 20 US States Including Michigan

Residents of Michigan and up to 20 other U.S. states may witness a strong display of the northern lights on the night of Thursday, November 6, weather permitting. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the aurora borealis will begin appearing late Thursday night and could continue into early Friday morning, November 7. The phenomenon might be visible again on Friday night as well.

When and Where to See the Northern Lights in Michigan

The northern lights could be seen overhead in Michigan as far south as Traverse City, Gaylord, and Alpena. The horizon where the lights might appear extends south to northern Ohio and Indiana, expanding visibility further south than usual due to a moderate geomagnetic storm.

Cause of the Visibility Shift

"NOAA predicts a moderate geomagnetic storm caused by solar eruptions that sent charged particles toward Earth's magnetic pull earlier this week, meaning the lights could be seen a bit farther south than usual."

This storm is a G3 geomagnetic storm, a significant disturbance in Earth's magnetic field, expected to produce a Kp index of 7. The Kp index measures the severity of magnetic disruptions near Earth on a scale from 0 to 9. Typically, a Kp of 5 or higher indicates conditions favorable for viewing the northern lights in Michigan.

About the Kp Index

This week's geomagnetic activity offers a rare chance for many Michiganders and residents of neighboring states to experience the aurora borealis.

Author’s summary: A moderate geomagnetic storm is expected to brighten the northern lights, making them visible across Michigan and up to 20 states, offering an exceptional viewing opportunity this week.

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Lansing State Journal Lansing State Journal — 2025-11-05

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