There’s nothing quite like seeing the northern lights in Canada! This week, cross your fingers for a clear sky because space could put on quite the show, and you won’t want to miss it.
The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have forecast an aurora borealis, and those who might have it on their bucket list are encouraged to look up from coast to coast.
When and where to see the lights
Interested in seeing shades of green and pink dance across the constellations? A G2 storm could light the night in the early hours of Apr. 16, 2025.
Described as “moderate” by the NOAA, night owls as far south as Toronto could see colourful hues way up high or on the horizon.
“High(+) aurora activity forecasted. If skies are clear, highly active auroral displays may be visible overhead from locations such as Inuvik, Yellowknife, Rankin and Iqaluit, Canada, to Vancouver, Helena, Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Bay City, Toronto and Montpelier, U.S.A., and Charlottetown, Canada,” UAF states.
WATCH: Geomagnetic Storm Category G2 Predicted
Highest Storm Level Predicted by Day:
Apr 14: None (Below G1) Apr 15: None (Below G1) Apr 16: G2 (Moderate)
Issue Time: 2025 Apr 13 2007 UTChttps://t.co/ZbtuNtIFJC— NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (@NWSSWPC) April 13, 2025
Of course, you’ll need to know a few things before heading outdoors.
The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) recommends choosing a location away from light pollution and checking the weather to make sure the aurora can actually be seen.
“Look all around you, not only north: auroras may appear anywhere in the sky,” they add.
In addition, bringing snacks, blankets, and a friend or loved one will also make the occasion extra special. Nothing is guaranteed, so even if it’s a bust and you don’t catch them this time around, you’ll have good company.
The best time to see the aurora is usually within an hour or two of midnight between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, so get your rest, Canada.
It could be a beautiful evening, and you won’t want to sleep your way through it.
It’s certainly not every day that most people across Canada get to see the northern lights. Enjoy!
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Cassandra Stefanic
Regional Editor, Prairies – Cassandra is a Calgary-based journalist with a deep appreciation for music, film, food, travelling, and storytelling. When she’s not chasing a story, writing or editing, you’ll likely find her binge-watching a new TV series, at a speakeasy with friends, cooking, or getting lost in a Taylor Swift re-record.
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