3-Day Geomagnetic Forecast - Northern Lights Alaska

What is the 3-Day Forecast?

The 3-Day Geomagnetic Forecast provides short-term predictions of geomagnetic activity (measured by the Kp Index) for the next 3 days. This forecast is updated multiple times daily and offers the most accurate short-term predictions for aurora viewing.

Why 3 Days?

The 3-day forecast provides the best balance between accuracy and planning time. It's based on current solar conditions, active sunspot regions, and coronal hole patterns. This timeframe allows for reliable predictions while giving you enough time to plan your aurora viewing trip.

Key Features

High Accuracy: Most reliable forecast for near-term aurora viewing
Frequent Updates: Updated multiple times daily as conditions change
Hourly Detail: Provides detailed Kp predictions for each 3-hour period
Planning Window: Perfect for planning trips 1-3 days in advance

How to Use This Forecast

1.

Short-Term Planning: Use this forecast for trips happening in the next 1-3 days. Look for periods with predicted Kp values of 5 or higher.

2.

Check Frequently: Since this forecast updates multiple times daily, check back regularly as your viewing date approaches for the most current predictions.

3.

Compare with Longer Forecasts: Use the 7-day and 27-day forecasts for context, but rely on the 3-day forecast for final planning decisions.

💡 Best Practice

For the most accurate aurora viewing predictions, check the 3-day forecast the day before and the morning of your planned viewing. Combine this with real-time Kp Index monitoring for the best results.

3-Day Forecast Chart

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Data Points: periods

Date Range: -

Kp Index Scale

0-2

Quiet

3-4

Unsettled

5

Minor Storm

6

Moderate

7-9

Strong

For Aurora Viewing: Kp values of 5 or higher typically indicate good aurora viewing opportunities in Alaska. Higher values (6-9) suggest stronger, more widespread aurora activity.