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Anchorage Aurora Forecast

United States61.22°N, 149.90°W

Real-time aurora probability and cloud forecast for Anchorage, Alaska

Largest CityMountain BackdropGateway
Best Season

September, October, November, December, January, February, March

Aurora Type

Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights)

Timezone

America/Anchorage

Current Aurora Conditions

Kp Index

Solar Wind

Aurora Forecast

Moon Phase

Aurora Probability Map

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Anchorage Aurora Viewing Guide

Anchorage, Alaska's largest city, offers aurora viewing with stunning mountain backdrops. While further south than Fairbanks, strong geomagnetic storms bring aurora overhead, especially from September to April.

Best Time to Visit

September to March offers the best viewing. Anchorage needs Kp 4+ for reliable overhead aurora, though higher activity brings spectacular displays.

Weather Conditions

Maritime-influenced climate is milder than Interior Alaska. Temperatures range from -5°C to -15°C in winter. More clouds than Fairbanks but milder conditions.

Viewing Tips

  • Glen Alps trailhead offers elevated views above city lights
  • Hatcher Pass is darker but requires winter driving skills
  • Consider driving north toward Talkeetna for clearer skies

Recommended Viewing Spots

Glen Alps Trailhead

Elevated viewpoint in the Chugach Mountains accessible from Anchorage. City lights can add foreground interest to aurora shots.

61.0956°N, 149.7222°W

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Hatcher Pass

Beautiful mountain pass. Note: Summit road closes in winter; access limited to lower Independence Mine area.

61.7833°N, 149.2833°W

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, especially during Kp 4+ activity. Anchorage is at 61.2°N, requiring stronger geomagnetic storms than Fairbanks. When aurora does appear, it can be spectacular with the Chugach Mountains as backdrop.

Data provided by NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center and Open-Meteo