Upper Midwest Tonight: Northern Lights Possible Overnight Jan. 2–Jan. 3, 2026 from Minnesota to Montana

Residents across the Upper Midwest may be in for a rare and memorable sight tonight as aurora activity is expected to increase between January 2 and early January 3, 2026. Skywatchers in Minnesota, North Dakota, and Montana could have a chance to see the northern lights as elevated solar activity interacts with Earth’s magnetic field.

Why the Aurora Could Appear Tonight

The sun has recently released a burst of charged particles that are expected to reach Earth’s atmosphere overnight. When these particles collide with gases in the upper atmosphere, they can create shimmering waves of green, red, and purple light known as the aurora borealis.

Forecast models indicate conditions strong enough to push auroral visibility farther south than usual, increasing the likelihood of sightings across the northern United States.

Best Areas for Viewing

The strongest viewing potential is expected in:

• Northern Minnesota

• North Dakota

• Montana

People living near the Canadian border or in rural areas away from city lights will have the best chance to see the display. In some cases, the aurora may appear low on the northern horizon, while darker skies could allow it to stretch overhead.

Best Time to Look

Aurora activity is most likely to peak between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, though displays can begin earlier or continue later depending on conditions. Clear skies will significantly improve visibility.

How to Improve Your Chances

To increase the odds of seeing the northern lights:

• Choose a dark location away from streetlights

• Face north toward the horizon

• Allow your eyes time to adjust to the darkness

• Dress warmly, as overnight temperatures will be cold

Cameras and smartphones with night or long-exposure settings may capture colors that are faint to the naked eye.

What You Might See

If conditions align, observers could see:

• Soft green glows near the horizon

• Moving arcs or curtains of light

• Occasional flashes of red or purple during stronger bursts

Intensity may fluctuate throughout the night, so patience is key.

Why This Event Is Special

Auroras visible this far south are relatively uncommon and depend on precise space-weather conditions. This overnight window represents one of the better chances early in 2026 for Upper Midwest residents to experience the northern lights without traveling far north.

With favorable solar conditions in place, tonight could deliver a stunning natural light show across parts of the Upper Midwest. Anyone in Minnesota, North Dakota, or Montana with clear skies is encouraged to step outside after dark and look north — the sky may put on an unforgettable performance.