Aurora Forecast for Iceland
Current Kp index and 3-day aurora forecast based on NOAA data
Data from NOAA SWPC, updated hourlyCurrent Kp
2.7
UnlikelyUnlikely tonight
Kp 2.7 — some activity but visible aurora over Iceland is unlikely. A faint arc may appear under clear dark skies in northernmost areas.
3-Day Aurora Forecast
| Time | Kp | Type | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thu 19 Mar, 21:00 | 0.33 | Observed | No aurora |
| Fri 20 Mar, 00:00 | 2.00 | Observed | Unlikely |
| Fri 20 Mar, 03:00 | 2.67 | Observed | Unlikely |
| Fri 20 Mar, 06:00 | 4.00 | Forecast | Good chances |
| Fri 20 Mar, 09:00 | 4.33 | Forecast | Good chances |
| Fri 20 Mar, 12:00 | 4.67 | Forecast | Good chances |
| Fri 20 Mar, 15:00 | 4.67 | Forecast | Good chances |
| Fri 20 Mar, 18:00 | 6.00 | Forecast | Excellent |
Forecast data from NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center. 3-hourly Kp values.
What is the Kp Index?
The Kp index measures global geomagnetic activity on a scale from 0 to 9. For Iceland (latitude 64–66°N), aurora becomes visible from around Kp 3 in North Iceland, and from Kp 4–5 across the whole country. A Kp of 7+ indicates a geomagnetic storm with spectacular aurora even in southern Iceland.
Best Aurora Viewing Spots in Iceland
Þórsmörk
Remote highland valley, zero light pollution, stunning mountain backdrop.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Away from Reykjavík — ideal dark sky conditions along the north shore.
Akureyri area
North Iceland base — aurora visible at lower Kp levels.
Kirkjufell, Grundarfjörður
Iconic mountain, one of Iceland's most photographed aurora spots.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Aurora reflecting in icebergs — spectacular if skies are clear.
Reykjanes Peninsula
Close to Reykjavík but darker. Good for a quick chase.
Aurora Hunting Tips
- Check the forecast 1–2 hours before heading out — Kp can change rapidly.
- Clear, dark skies are essential. Check cloud cover forecasts (vedur.is).
- Face north and give your eyes 15–20 minutes to adjust to darkness.
- Aurora apps and cameras can pick up activity your eyes may miss.
- Best months: September through March (long nights in Iceland).
- New moon periods give the darkest skies — plan around the lunar calendar.