Northern Lights Tonight in Sitka, Alaska

Live visibility odds for Sitka, combining the current geomagnetic Kp index with real local cloud cover, not just one or the other.

What Kp do you need in Sitka?

Those frequencies are how often the geomagnetic threshold itself is reached, before weather. Cloud cover, moonlight and local light pollution all cut into it, which is why the live score at the top of this page multiplies the geomagnetic odds by tonight's actual sky over Sitka.

Which way to look from Sitka

Face north. From Sitka the auroral oval sits well to the north, so activity shows up as a glow low on the northern horizon rather than overhead — which means a clear, unobstructed northern view matters more here than total darkness does.

About aurora viewing in Sitka

Sitka sits on the outer coast of Southeast Alaska, facing the open Pacific, which gives it clearer sightlines than more enclosed inland channels, when the weather cooperates.

Where locals actually go

Sitka's beaches and coastal overlooks facing away from town provide open horizon views, though the region's marine climate means clear nights aren't guaranteed.

Best time of year

Like the rest of Southeast Alaska, cloud cover is the main limiting factor here more often than geomagnetic activity.

Will I see the aurora in Sitka tonight?

Right now, Sitka has a 6% chance based on tonight's real conditions: Kp 1.7 and 16% clear skies. Camera only (long exposure). This updates live, so check back closer to dark for the most accurate read, especially if the sky is currently cloudy where you are.

A good Kp forecast isn't the whole story. See what else actually determines whether you'll see it →