You need a Kp-index. This is a number from 0 to 9 that tells you how angry the sun is. A Kp of 5 or higher? That’s a geomagnetic storm. That’s good.
Apps like My Aurora Forecast or Glendale’s Aurora App are your best friends. They’ll tell you the exact probability for your zip code. Download one right now. I’ll wait. Done? Good.
Also, check SpaceWeatherLive.com. It’s geeky. It’s full of graphs. But it’s the truth. If the data says “active,” you grab your coat.
What About Your Local Weather? (The Crucial Bummer Check)
You can have a perfect Kp-8 storm. But if it’s cloudy? You’re staring at a grey blanket. Sorry. Clouds are the party poopers of the aurora world.
Aurora borealis watch: How to see northern lights in 12 states tonight
Check your local forecast. You need clear skies or at least patchy clouds. A few wispy clouds are fine. A solid overcast? Go back to Netflix.
And light pollution? It’s the enemy. You cannot see the aurora from downtown Chicago. You need dark. Like, “where’s my flashlight” dark. Get away from city lights. Drive thirty minutes. An hour if you can.
Your best bet is a state park, a national forest, or a lake shore. Somewhere the horizon is wide open. North-facing is even better. Point your nose north.
