GRAND RAPIDS, Michigan — 13 ON YOUR SIDE meteorologists are predicting that Michigan could have a view of the northern lights Friday night and into the weekend, but there's one big catch.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Prediction Center issued the first G4 geomagnetic watch since 2005.
That's getting aurora chasers excited for the chance to see a showing of the northern lights as far south as Alabama.
13 ON YOUR SIDE Meteorologist Samantha Jacques said sky conditions will deteriorate throughout the overnight hours.
Near sunset on Friday, skies will be clear but clouds increase quickly and rain begins around midnight and continues until 4 a.m. Saturday.
Chances of being able to see the northern lights through the cloud coverage and rainfall are low, she said.
The National Weather Service in Grand Rapids echoed that sentiment.
Partly cloudy skies may allow some viewing but after 11 p.m.-12 a.m., the NWS expects clouds to increase and showers to limit your northern lights viewing potential.
NOAA said you can typically spot the best aurora within an hour or two of midnight.
Your best bet is to get away from the city lights and other light pollution. How bright the moon is can also impact viewing.
Check out NOAA's tips for viewing the aurora here.
If you catch any cool weather photos or videos around West Michigan, be sure to share them with us by texting them to 616-559-1310.
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