Topline A strong solar flare slightly less powerful than the one that caused May’s dazzling lights is expected to cause intense Northern Lights sightings across several U.S. states over the next few days.

Key Facts Surprising Fact The sun produced an X9.0 solar flare Wednesday, beating out May’s flare to become the strongest flare of Solar Cycle 25. Because it was directed toward Earth, even stronger Northern Lights are expected in the coming days.

Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible? Though it’s hard to tell where the Northern Lights will show up, they may be the most visible Thursday night in Canada and Alaska, according to NOAA (see image below). However, continental U.S.

states within the aurora’s view line include Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. What’s The Best Way To See The Northern Lights? The lights are typically the most active between 10 p.m.

and 2 a.m. For the best views of the Northern Lights, the agency advises traveling as close to the poles as possible, avoiding city lights and other light pollution, monitoring weather forecasts for prime viewing conditions and finding a position on a vantage point like a hilltop.

What’s The Best Way To Photograph The Northern Lights? Smartphone cameras are sensitive enough to pick up the aurora, even when it’s invisible to the naked eye. Visit Iceland , a tourist we.