Aurora Borealis is typically only seen in the northernmost regions of the Earth, but an 11 year solar cycle expected to peak in 2024 will make the lights visible further South for a few hours.

The Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska at Fairbanks forecasts that the phenomena can be seen in several states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana.

The Northern Lights will be visible low on the horizon across Chicago, but will be harder to spot due to light pollution. Chicagoans looking for a better view may opt to head to Milwaukee, where the lights are expected to be visible overhead between 10pm and 2am Thursday night.