Aurora Alert! A Few Nights Of Northern Lights Ahead In Minnesota

In what has been a busy year for Northern Lights viewing opportunities, Minnesota is in line for another few nights of shows this week, all thanks to another geomagnetic storm.

If you're looking to check out this week's show, here's when the best viewing chances are expected and everything else you need to know:

Why has this year been so active for Northern Lights viewing?

For people who live in Northern Minnesota, it isn't completely unheard of to get somewhat consistent chances to see at least faint auroras on the horizon. This year, there have been a number of much more intense shows, including overhead viewing, even in southern parts of Minnesota.

The reason is because of the sun reaching the peak of its solar cycle, which is when it is most active. Extra energy is being spewed toward Earth from time to time due to increased solar weather with things like solar flares and sunspots getting to their highest levels in the roughly 11-year cycle the sun goes through.

When are this week's best viewing opportunities for the Northern Lights?

Like any forecast, there are no guarantees. We've seen instances in the past where the aurora forecast was promising, but we didn't get much. We've also been surprised by good shows from time to time.

READ MORE: These are scientifically the best Northern Lights viewing locations in Minnesota

This week, we have three nights of good chances at the Northern Lights.

From the KP Index numbers from the 3-day forecast from the Space Weather Prediction Center, it looks like tonight (Tuesday 9/10) and Thursday (9/12) might be the best nights, with a lull on Wednesday.

There is still certainly a chance on Wednesday, but it looks like tonight might be the night to get out, and then Thursday night would be a good second chance.

How far south will viewing be possible?

Peak KP Index numbers look like they might get up to around 6 which gives most of Minnesota the chance to see Northern Lights. Northern Minnesota could be in line for overhead viewing, while Southern Minnesota is more likely to see lights on the horizon.

How will the weather impact viewing?

Across Northern Minnesota, there shouldn't be too much cloud cover to contend with for most of the week. There may be some passing clouds, but the whole week looks like there will be clear (enough) sky conditions to enjoy the show. There may be some fog Tuesday night into Wednesday morning to be aware of, however.

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Further south, there are some greater chances of cloud cover, but not complete overcast conditions. That said, getting some viewing in should still be an option.