Northern lights in Oregon are rare: this far south they need a strong geomagnetic storm of Kp 8 or more. Of the 4 locations AuroraMe tracks in Oregon, Portland has the best chance; others need up to Kp 9.
Cities Covered
4
Magnetic Latitude Range
47.6°–50.8° MLAT
Required Kp Index
Kp 8.0–9.0
Unlikely
Best chance in Oregon tonight: Portland
AuroraMe watches Kp, clouds and darkness windows so you know when to go outside.
Kp Requirements by Location
Portland
50.8° MLAT
Kp 8.0+ Horizon
Kp 9.0+ Optimal
Bend
49.6° MLAT
Kp 8.0+ Horizon
Kp 9.0+ Optimal
Eugene
49.3° MLAT
Kp 8.0+ Horizon
Kp 9.0+ Optimal
Medford
47.6° MLAT
Kp 9.0+ Horizon
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Aurora Status by City
Portland
Oregon's largest city with rare but memorable northern lights events
Unlikely
Bend
Central Oregon resort city with dark skies perfect for aurora viewing
Unlikely
Eugene
University city in Oregon's Willamette Valley with occasional aurora displays
Unlikely
Medford
Southern Oregon city with mountain-framed northern lights displays
Unlikely
Best Viewing Season in Oregon
Geographic Advantages
Mean astronomical darkness at Portland, Dec–Feb 10.2–11.7 hours
Peak Aurora Months
Estimates for Portland
August 0.14 clear nights, 40.4% cloud
September 0.12 clear nights, 47.4% cloud
October 0.12 clear nights, 62.8% cloud
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you see the northern lights in Oregon?
Yes, Oregon offers aurora viewing opportunities. Cities like Portland (MLAT 50.8°) can see aurora at Kp 8.0+, 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.
