Cancel your Friday night plans. Here’s a new plan for an incredible, unusual, and very special night out. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that the Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, could possibly be visible in Washington State tonight, September 10, 2024. However, you might need to take a little road trip to Northern Washington to catch the unbelievable view. Grab some road trip snacks, pack up the whole family, and hit the road to catch a glimpse of this unparalleled natural phenomenon.
Where can I see the Northern Lights in Washington State?
The Northern Lights have been visible multiple times this summer in the North Cascades mountain range, located in northwestern Washington State. The drive from Seattle to North Cascades National Park takes about 2.5 hours. A beautiful afternoon drive through gorgeous natural scenery topped off with an evening spent gazing at a rare natural spectacle sounds like the perfect getaway plan.
NOAA updates and necessary viewing conditions
This possible view of the Northern Lights stems from geomagnetic activity from this summer’s massive solar flare sent out from the sun. The NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) issued a geomagnetic storm watch earlier this summer. And all this increased solar activity increases the chances of seeing the Northern Lights, especially in dark, elevated areas away from city lights.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts that the Northern Lights are estimated to happen anytime overnight, from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Of course, the best visibility happens away from light pollution. To see if you’ll be able to catch the Northern Lights from your location, check out NOAA’s aurora forecast tool, which provides a 30-minute forecast window.
For more detailed updates, visit the NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center website.
What are the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights are typically only visible in the lower polar regions. This stunning natural light display happens when charged particles from the sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field. This interaction creates breathtaking patterns of light in the sky. Because of the previously mentioned geomagnetic storm, it has become possible to view this rare spectacle in Northern Washington.
How Else Can I See the Northern Lights in Washington?
If you’re not able to travel or if the skies aren’t clear in your area, you can still experience the Northern Lights via Explore.org’s online livestream. Everyone can marvel at this awe-inspiring natural event, even from the comfort of your own home.