The Northern Lights are back this Wednesday, November 12, 2025. After a spectacular night in which the luminous phenomenon lit up the French sky from north to south, a new opportunity for observation will arise at nightfall. The ongoing geomagnetic storm, caused by a powerful solar flare, is expected to reach a new peak of intensity in the evening, offering residents of the Paris region and all of France a rare chance to admire these northern lights, usually reserved for high latitudes.
The phenomenon originated in a major solar flare that occurred on the morning of Tuesday, November 11, 2025. This exceptional solar activity generated coronal mass ejections that traveled at high speed before reaching our planet on the night of November 11-12. The impact triggered a geomagnetic storm of remarkable intensity, with a Kp index that climbed above 8 on a scale of 9. For the general public in Paris and the surrounding region, this index represents the measurement of terrestrial geomagnetic activity, and such a level means that auroras can descend to unusually low latitudes.
Last night, the show was particularly striking in northern France, where observers were closer to the magnetic pole. Despite the presence of high clouds that sometimes hindered observation, photographers captured magnificent pink hues dancing above the Bay of Somme in the second half of the night. In the east of the country, clear skies provided ideal conditions for admiring this celestial ballet. In Côte-d'Or, around 3 a.m., at the peak of activity, the colors unfolded with remarkable intensity.
The Alpine peaks enjoyed exceptional viewing conditions thanks to the absence of light pollution. In Morzine, in the Haute-Savoie region, the auroras revealed not only shades of pink, but also yellow-orange bands that delighted nighttime observers. It should be noted that the photographs, taken with an exposure time of several seconds, reveal more intense colors than those perceived by the naked eye. Nevertheless, several witnesses confirmed that the phenomenon remained visible without a camera, especially in areas spared from light pollution.
The forecast for Wednesday evening is encouraging. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which monitors solar activity, anticipates a new peak in geomagnetic activity early in the evening, with the Kp index expected to reach 8 again. This configuration offers a new window of opportunity for residents of Paris and the Île-de-France region to observe the phenomenon, although it will be more pronounced in northern regions.
To maximize your chances of seeing it, here are a few tips. Look north, ideally from a place with a clear horizon and minimal light pollution. In the Paris region, parks on the outskirts such as the Forest of Fontainebleau or the heights of Montmorency may offer better conditions than the center of the capital. Residents of the Paris region can also consider a trip to neighboring departments, where the darkness of the sky makes observation much easier.
This type of event remains relatively rare in our latitudes. The last time such intense auroras were visible in France was a few months ago, during similar geomagnetic storms. These events remind us that our planet remains intimately linked to the activity of our star, the Sun, whose moods can illuminate our nights in spectacular ways.
In short, if you're looking for something fun to do this Wednesday evening, look up at the night sky. With a little luck and clear skies, you could witness one of the most beautiful natural spectacles that nature has to offer, without even having to leave the Paris region.
Dates and Opening Time
On November 12, 2025
Location
Paris
75 Paris
Prices
Free
