Northern Lights Forecast: Aurora Could Be Visible In These States On Valentine’s Day

Forbes Business

by Mike Stunson, Forbes Staff

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, could potentially be visible in ten U.S. states on Valentine’s Day weekend, according to recent forecasts. This natural light show is expected to appear in the skies as a result of a coronal mass ejection (CME) from the sun, which recently interacted with Earth's magnetic field. The phenomenon may be particularly vivid during the late evening and early morning hours of Saturday and Sunday, February 10-12, 2024. This celestial event is driven by solar activity, where a CME releases a significant amount of energy into space, eventually colliding with Earth’s magnetosphere. This interaction can trigger geomagnetic storms that intensify the auroras, making them more visible to the naked eye. The regions most likely to experience this natural wonder include parts of Michigan, Maine, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Washington, Idaho, Montana, and Oregon. These states are located in areas where the Earth’s magnetic field channels the charged particles from the solar wind toward the poles, creating optimal viewing conditions. While the Northern Lights are a fascinating natural spectacle for astronomy enthusiasts, they also hold significant economic implications. The increased visibility of these auroras could attract tourists to regions that might otherwise see minimal visitors during winter months. Hotels, restaurants, and local businesses in these areas may benefit from higher foot traffic as people flock to witness the phenomenon. Additionally, this event offers an opportunity for photographers and social media influencers to capture stunning visuals, further boosting local visibility and tourism potential. For those planning to view the auroras, it’s essential to seek out dark skies away from urban light pollution for the best experience. Patience is key, as the lights can appear in varying intensities and durations. While the exact timing and visibility depend on solar activity and weather conditions, this Valentine’s Day weekend presents a unique chance to witness one of nature

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Originally published on Forbes Business on 2/14/2026