Northern Lights Viewing in Wisconsin

Aurora borealis enthusiasts in Wisconsin are in for a treat, with opportunities to view the stunning northern lights on both Monday and Tuesday nights. Strong geomagnetic storms have been lighting up the night sky throughout the year, and recent forecasts suggest that more dazzling displays could be on the horizon.

When to See the Northern Lights

According to the NOAA’s Space Prediction Weather Center, parts of the northern United States, including Wisconsin, will likely experience visible auroras on Monday and Tuesday nights. The current forecast indicates a Kp index of 3 for Monday and 4 for Tuesday. The Kp index measures geomagnetic activity, with higher values indicating a greater likelihood of visible auroras. Although a Kp index of 3 or 4 may result in a dimmer display, conditions can still be quite pleasing for viewers, especially if they find the right location.

For optimal viewing, the best time to observe the northern lights is typically between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time. This is when the sky is darkest, and the lights are most vibrant.

Tips for the Best Viewing Experience

To enhance your chances of witnessing the aurora borealis, consider the following tips:

• Choose a Dark Location: Move away from city lights and urban areas. The darker the surroundings, the better your chances of seeing the lights.
• Find High Ground: A higher vantage point can provide a clearer view of the sky, allowing for an unobstructed view of the auroras.
• Check the Weather: Clear skies are essential for viewing the northern lights. Keep an eye on the weather forecast; while northern Wisconsin is expected to be mostly clear, areas near Milwaukee may experience some cloud cover on Monday night.

The Science Behind the Northern Lights

As the sun approaches the peak of its 11-year solar cycle in 2025, experts anticipate an increase in aurora activity due to heightened electromagnetic phenomena. This means that over the coming months, viewers can expect more frequent and potentially brighter displays of the northern lights.

Weather Forecast for Viewing Nights

For those planning to venture out, Monday night in northern Wisconsin is forecasted to be chilly, with temperatures in the high 20s and mostly clear skies. In contrast, Milwaukee will experience slightly milder temperatures in the mid-30s with partly cloudy skies. On Tuesday night, temperatures will remain in the mid-30s in Milwaukee, with clearer conditions expected.

For more details, you can read the original article on the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin northern lights forecast: How to see aurora borealis Monday.