As the year comes to a close, the sky might offer more than just fireworks as the northern lights are predicted to grace parts of the United States on New Year’s Eve. The NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a G3-level geomagnetic storm watch, anticipating that the lights, also known as the aurora borealis, could be visible as far south as northern Iowa and southern Wisconsin stemming from a recent coronal mass ejection that has reached Earth.

These spectacular displays, which can light up the night sky with hues of green, pink, and blue, are expected to become visible after nightfall on December 31, with a chance of a second showing after sundown on January 1. NOAA forecasters, like Shawn Dahl, caution that the precise timing of the auroras will remain uncertain until the solar material is just minutes away from the planet. “We won’t know exactly when the phenomena can be seen until the solar material is within one million miles from Earth,” Dahl explained.

The northern lights become visible when charged particles from the sun collide with Earth’s atmosphere, resulting in mesmerizing natural light displays. According to recent reports, areas such as Washington, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and parts of the Midwest will have the best chances of witnessing this awe-inspiring phenomenon. Experts recommend seeking locations far from urban light pollution for optimal viewing conditions.

With predictions for minimal moonlight during this time, skywatchers will have an excellent opportunity to take in the enchanting views nature has to offer. Those who miss the spectacle on New Year’s Eve can look forward to potential sightings the following days, making this a truly special transition into the New Year.