Iowans Could See the Northern Lights Thursday Night
The Space Weather Prediction Center expects the northern lights to return to Iowa on Thursday evening, offering a rare opportunity for stargazers across the state.
Forecast and Viewing Conditions
According to the Center's forecast, there is a strong chance for auroras to be visible across the northern United States, with the view line reaching near Iowa’s southern border. Residents in northern Iowa are more likely to witness the spectacle.
Understanding the Aurora
NOAA describes auroras as “beautiful light curtains formed when energetic particles from the sun strike the atmosphere.”
Commonly known as the aurora borealis, these luminous patterns occur in the northern hemisphere. A similar phenomenon in the southern hemisphere is called the aurora australis.
Weather Factors
Clouds may obscure the show for some Iowans. Around 9 p.m. Thursday, much of the state—including Des Moines—will experience heavy cloud coverage, reaching about 94%. Western Iowa will have the clearest skies. Conditions should improve later in the night as clouds move eastward, reducing Des Moines' cloud cover to roughly 31% by midnight.
Moonlight and Visibility
The nearly full waning gibbous moon, shining at 98% illumination, could make it harder to see the aurora despite clearer skies later in the evening.
Author’s summary: On Thursday evening, Iowans may glimpse the northern lights if the clouds thin out, though bright moonlight could reduce visibility.