Sources: 
A G3 geomagnetic storm expected Thursday night will boost the chances of seeing the northern lights in Vermont, New York, and New Hampshire. The storm should peak at a Kp index of
7, making it a strong candidate for aurora viewing.
The predictions state that the strongest auroral activity will occur between
8 p.m. and
11 p.m., with elevated storm conditions continuing through
5 a.m. Friday. Observers should be prepared for a potentially stunning display, as NOAA suggests that Burlington offers a prime location rather than just a faint glow on the horizon.
The current auroral forecast follows the arrival of a coronal mass ejection (CME) around
mid-afternoon EDT on June 4, expecting to enhance conditions through the evening hours. Previous conditions have shown persistent auroral displays in the U.S. since
2024, coinciding with the peak of the sun’s 11-year solar cycle. However, experts warn that auroral activity may diminish after 2026 as we move away from this peak period for northern lights visibility.
For those in areas along the northern U.S. border, the possibility of a “quite pleasing” aurora borealis display is heightened, especially following the forecasted Kp index of
7 Thursday night. Observers should prepare accordingly to witness this natural phenomenon before the conditions decline in subsequent years.
Sources: A G3 geomagnetic storm forecast for Thursday night enhances visibility of the northern lights across Vermont, New York, and New Hampshire. The strongest aurora activity is anticipated between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m., with effects lasting through Friday morning due to combined CME arrival.
