Northern lights in Arizona are very rare: only an extreme geomagnetic storm, Kp 9 at the top of the scale, can bring them this far south. Of the 4 locations AuroraMe tracks in Arizona, Flagstaff has the best chance.
Cities Covered
4
Magnetic Latitude Range
40.0°–42.7° MLAT
Required Kp Index
Kp 9.0–9.0
Unlikely
Best chance in Arizona tonight: Flagstaff
AuroraMe watches Kp, clouds and darkness windows so you know when to go outside.
Kp Requirements by Location
Flagstaff
42.7° MLAT
Kp 9.0+ Horizon
Mesa
41.0° MLAT
Kp 9.0+ Horizon
Phoenix
41.0° MLAT
Kp 9.0+ Horizon
Tucson
40.0° MLAT
Kp 9.0+ Horizon
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Aurora Status by City
Best Viewing Season in Arizona
Geographic Advantages
Mean astronomical darkness at Flagstaff, Dec–Feb 10.2–11.2 hours
Peak Aurora Months
Estimates for Flagstaff
May 0.02 clear nights, 32.8% cloud
October 0.02 clear nights, 29.6% cloud
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you see the northern lights in Arizona?
Yes, Arizona offers aurora viewing opportunities. Cities like Flagstaff (MLAT 42.7°) can see aurora at Kp 9.0+, while southern locations need Kp 9.0+. Best viewing is September–April during dark, clear nights.
Learn More About the Northern Lights
Use the aurora borealis forecast, check northern lights tonight, or open the live aurora map and Kp tracker.
