Northern Lights Visible in Minnesota Tonight, May 14-15
Residents of Minnesota and several northern U.S. states may have the opportunity to witness the northern lights, or aurora borealis, on the nights of May 14 and 15. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center, geomagnetic activity is expected to peak between 11 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, creating optimal conditions for viewing the auroras. The phenomenon occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in Earth's atmosphere, producing colorful light displays. While Canada is expected to have the most intense views, states such as Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin may also catch a glimpse, depending on weather and geomagnetic storm intensity. NOAA forecasts suggest that geomagnetic activity could continue through May 16, potentially extending viewing opportunities.