WI was able to see the Northern Lights on Thanksgiving

For Thanksgiving this year, sky watchers in Wisconsin have another reason to be thankful: A geomagnetic storm could make the northern lights visible again in the state on Thursday.

Such storms have produced bright appearances in Wisconsin’s night sky on several occasions throughout 2024.

On Wednesday, NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center issued a geomagnetic storm warning for Thanksgiving and Black Friday.

“The Northern Lights could become visible over some northern and upper Midwestern states from New York to Idaho,” the watch said. “If you want to see the aurora, you should check our website for updates.”

Here’s what you should know about your chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Wisconsin this week:

When could I see the Northern Lights in Wisconsin?

Aurora borealis lovers from Wisconsin will have a chance to see the northern lights Thursday evening, according to a forecast from NOAA’s Space Prediction Weather Center.

Thursday’s forecast calls for a Kp index of five, meaning aurora activity may be brighter. “If you’re in the right place, these auroras can be very beautiful to see,” says NOAA.

The official aurora forecast for Friday has not yet been released, but a moderate geomagnetic storm warning is in effect.

For the most up-to-date information, check out NOAA’s Northern Lights Forecast Tool here.

When is the best time to look for the Northern Lights?

The Aurora Borealis usually looks best between 10:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. local time. NOAA recommends keeping an eye out for them.

Aside from looking for it around midnight, NOAA also says those wanting to catch a glimpse of a display should move away from city lights and head to high-altitude viewing points.

What will the weather be like on Thanksgiving and Black Friday in Wisconsin?

According to the National Weather Service office in Green Bay, temperatures Thursday evening in northern Wisconsin are expected to be in the low 20s and there is a risk of severe weather. The cool weather will continue into Friday night and the minimum temperature will be 15 degrees, but the night sky will be partly cloudy.

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