On January 2, 2026, residents across Vermont and many northern states may have the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing northern lights, thanks to a moderate geomagnetic storm. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a G2 storm watch for the evening, aligning with both the peak of the Quadrantid meteor shower and the January full moon.
According to the watch, the auroras could potentially be visible as far south as New York, extending through states like Wisconsin and reaching out to Washington state, with a noted K-index of 6 indicating elevated geomagnetic activity. While northern Vermont is positioned in a favorable viewing area, it is important to note that partly cloudy skies could hinder visibility.
Given the conditions, the states that are expected to have the greatest chance of witnessing the northern lights include:
– Washington
– Idaho
– Montana
– North Dakota
– South Dakota
– Minnesota
– Wisconsin
– Michigan
– Alaska
Additionally, other states remain in the potential view line, which could still offer a glimpse of this natural spectacle. These states include:
– Oregon
– Wyoming
– Nebraska
– Iowa
– Illinois
– New York
– Vermont
– New Hampshire
– Maine
For those eager to catch a glimpse of this ethereal display, the optimal viewing window is typically from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., when the lights are most visible. To enhance the stargazing experience, experts recommend finding dark spaces away from city lights. Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Technical Instructor and Observatory Manager Tim Brothers suggests heading to local conservation areas or parks that minimize artificial lighting, or seeking out coastal areas away from urban hubs.
For those looking to track the potential for northern lights sightings, various online resources are available, including Aurora Alerts, the Space Weather Prediction Center, and NOAA’s Aurora forecast page.
With these exceptional conditions, the excitement of witnessing the northern lights can offer a magical experience for all who venture out this evening, should the skies cooperate.