Tonight's odds in Fort McMurray are fair: solar activity looks quiet tonight (Kp 1.3, below Fort McMurray's usual Kp 2 threshold), and the sky outlook is clear skies.
Right now, the planet-wide aurora activity is Kp 3 (latest NOAA observed reading). What's Kp?
Best time to see the aurora in Fort McMurray
The best months in Fort McMurray are September, October, February, March — long, dark nights plus the equinox activity boost, when the odds are genuinely worth booking around. Tonight is one data point; the next 7 nights below show how the window is trending. Plan ahead and book a tour for your dates.
Know when Fort McMurray is about to light up
Aurora odds swing night to night. Leave your email and we'll tell you when Fort McMurray hits its best window — time to book a tour for your dates.
Aurora forecast for Fort McMurray — the next 3 nights
| Night | Peak Kp | Cloud | Odds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sat 6 AM | Kp 1.3 | 10% · clear skies | 37 Fair |
| Sat 9 PM | Kp 2.3 ✓ | 7% · clear skies | 64 Good |
| Sun 9 PM | Kp 3.7 ✓ | 100% · overcast | 12 Low |
A ✓ means the forecast Kp clears Fort McMurray's Kp 2 visibility threshold — but clear skies still decide the night.
Cloud outlook & dark hours
Cloud cover is the dealbreaker: a strong aurora under an overcast sky is a no-show. Tonight's dark-hours window in Fort McMurray looks clear skies (about 10% cloud on average). The aurora is best viewed away from town lights with a clear view toward the north.
Head out along the highways into the boreal forest; the surrounding area is sparsely lit.
Northern lights tours & stays in Fort McMurray
Aurora tours from Fort McMurray typically run $70–$230 per person. A guided "chase" that drives to the clearest sky is often worth it when the local forecast is cloudy.
Northern lights tours from Fort McMurray
Viator · guided tours · from $70
Aurora chases & photo tours in Fort McMurray
GetYourGuide · guided tours · from $70
Cabins, lodges & glass igloos near Fort McMurray
Booking.com · lodging