Stunning Northern Lights Could Dazzle Minnesota on Friday and Saturday Night

If you live in Minnesota, we are in for an absolutely gorgeous weekend.  Not only is it supposed to hit 75 degrees in the Rochester area, but we also have another chance to enjoy the Northern Lights.

READ MORE: Parts of Minnesota Expected To Hit 75+ Degrees on Saturday

If You Live In Minnesota, Iowa, or Wisconsin, You Have An Amazing Chance To See The Northern Lights This Weekend

Thanks to the latest updates from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) website, it appears that there is a pretty good chance that the Northern Lights will be visible for most of Minnesota and Wisconsin on Friday, March 20th, 2026.  Iowa doesn't have as good of a chance, but if you look at the right time and use the tips below, you could catch a glimpse of the pink and green lights in the sky too.

Get our free mobile app

Helpful Tips To Successfully See The Northern Lights This Weekend

I've met quite a few people who have been outside when the Northern Lights are out and tried to see the colors in the sky but unfortunately, totally missed them.

Follow the tips below and be one of the 10 to 20% of people who can say they have now seen the Northern Lights.

• Drive away from the city lights.  This typically means getting off the main roads and finding a country road that doesn't have any type of lighting nearby.
• Park away from a farm or street lights.  (And please, for the love of all things, do NOT park on the edge of a busy road.  This is extremely dangerous!)
• Take a photo with your phone of the sky - if you see green or purple on the photo when you look at it, that is probably the Northern Lights.  This also helps you realize where they are if so you can attempt to view it with just your eyes.
• Look during the peak time frame - there is a lot of weather science behind the Northern Lights, but historically, the peak times to catch the Northern Lights is as some point between 9:00 pm and 2:00 am.

READ MORE: How To Take Photos Of The Northern Lights

Aurora Viewline for Friday, March 20th, 2026

If you look at the map below, you can see where the red line stops, which indicates the viewing line for the Northern Lights.  The legend at the bottom shows the likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights, with the dark red areas being the best.

While Minnesota and Iowa aren't expected to be in the dark red tonight, don't discredit the chance.  I have had an opportunity for an amazing view even while being right on the red viewing line.

 Aurora Viewline for Saturday, March 21st, 2026

After you spend the day soaking up the mid-70s temps in Minnesota, head outside one more time on Saturday night to check out the Northern Lights.

Based on the forecast for the Northern Lights from NOAA, the chances to spot these magical colors in the sky is pretty good.