Iowans could see the northern lights Thursday night. What to know about the forecast.

Northern Lights Expected Over Iowa Thursday Night

The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are predicted to return to Iowa skies on the evening of Thursday, November 7. The Space Weather Prediction Center forecasts a strong chance of visibility across the northern United States.

What Are the Northern Lights?

NOAA describes auroras as “beautiful light curtains formed when energetic particles from the sun strike the atmosphere.”

The northern lights appear mainly in the northern hemisphere, while a similar phenomenon, known as the aurora australis, occurs in the southern hemisphere.

Forecast Details for Iowa

The viewing line for the northern lights is expected to cross near Iowa's southern border, but residents in the northern part of the state are more likely to see the display.

Cloud cover may affect visibility, with much of Iowa predicted to be cloudy around 9 p.m. Thursday. The Des Moines area could see about 95% cloud cover earlier in the evening, though skies should clear to 36% cloud cover by midnight.

The clearest skies are anticipated along Iowa’s western border as the night progresses.

Additional Viewing Considerations

Thursday night’s moon will be a waning gibbous with 98% illumination, which may reduce the visibility of the northern lights for some viewers.

Summary

While northern Iowa residents may catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis Thursday night, cloud cover and a bright moon could limit the view for many.

more

The Des Moines Register The Des Moines Register — 2025-11-06

More News