Northern Lights Visible in 20 US States Including Michigan
Residents in up to 20 U.S. states could witness the northern lights on Thursday night, weather permitting. Michigan is among the states expected to see a strong aurora display on the night of November 6 into the early morning of November 7.
When and Where to See the Northern Lights in Michigan
The phenomenon will be visible starting late Thursday night, continuing into Friday morning, and possibly again on Friday night. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts the aurora may extend farther south than usual due to a moderate geomagnetic storm.
In Michigan, the northern lights could appear overhead as far south as Traverse City, Gaylord, and Alpena. The aurora's southern visibility line may reach northern Ohio and Indiana.
Cause and Severity of the Storm
The display is driven by a G3 geomagnetic storm—a global disturbance in Earth's magnetic field—triggered by solar eruptions earlier in the week. Charged particles from the sun interacted with Earth's magnetosphere, elevating the activity.
“A G3 geomagnetic storm is expected to produce a Kp index of 7. The Kp index measures the intensity of magnetic disturbances, ranging from zero to 9. Values of 5 or above usually indicate that the northern lights can be seen in Michigan.” — NOAA
Viewing Tips
- Look to the northern horizon for the best chance to see the aurora.
- Clear, dark skies away from city lights will improve visibility.
- Check local weather and aurora forecasts before heading out.
This rare opportunity offers a potentially stunning natural light show visible across multiple states.
“Michigan residents are likely to get a strong northern lights display on Thursday, Nov. 6 — weather allowing — as NOAA says the aurora could be visible across up to 20 U.S. states.”
Author’s summary: A geomagnetic storm could produce a vivid northern lights display visible as far south as Michigan and neighboring states from late November 6 into early November 7, weather permitting.