UPDATE: A spectacular display of the Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, lit up the night sky across the United States on July 18, 2025, and experts predict another show tonight. Blasts of charged particles from the sun are expected to create more stunning views, particularly in the northern regions.
Meteorologist Marc Chenard from the Weather Prediction Center reports that the aurora should be visible across parts of the northern U.S. tonight, with clear skies anticipated in several areas. However, significant cloud cover is expected in many regions, especially on the West Coast and in the Northeast.
Key locations such as Minnesota, Wisconsin, and parts of North and South Dakota are likely to enjoy clearer skies. If the aurora extends further south, residents in the Tennessee Valley and mid-Atlantic regions may also have a chance to catch a glimpse, according to Chenard. Areas in Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Colorado could also experience favorable viewing conditions.
The vibrant lights began appearing late Tuesday following a significant solar event known as a coronal mass ejection (CME). This phenomenon occurs when the sun emits large amounts of charged particles, which interact with Earth’s magnetic field, leading to the mesmerizing auroras. Observers as far south as Alabama and New Mexico witnessed breathtaking sights on Tuesday night, with images of dazzling red and green lights shared widely on social media by National Weather Service offices across the country.
The aurora borealis is typically most visible near the North Pole, but during strong geomagnetic storms, such as the one currently affecting Earth, these lights can be seen much further south. The colors of the aurora are produced by the interaction of solar particles with different gases in the atmosphere; oxygen produces green or red hues, while nitrogen creates blue and purple tones.
As anticipation builds for tonight’s display, meteorologists urge viewers to check local weather conditions for optimal viewing opportunities. The awe-inspiring sight not only captivates astronomy enthusiasts but also offers a moment of connection to the wonders of our universe.
Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops and prepare to witness one of nature’s most breathtaking phenomena tonight!
