Tonight's odds in Fort Smith are excellent: solar activity is forecast strong enough (Kp 3) for the aurora to reach Fort Smith, and the sky outlook is clear skies.
Right now, the planet-wide aurora activity is Kp 1.3 (latest NOAA observed reading). What's Kp?
Best time to see the aurora in Fort Smith
The best months in Fort Smith are September, October, March, November — 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 Smith is about to light up
Aurora odds swing night to night. Leave your email and we'll tell you when Fort Smith hits its best window — time to book a tour for your dates.
Aurora forecast for Fort Smith — the next 3 nights
| Night | Peak Kp | Cloud | Odds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tue 3 AM | Kp 3 ✓ | 10% · clear skies | 79 Excellent |
| Wed 12 AM | Kp 2 ✓ | 100% · overcast | 11 Low |
| Thu 12 AM | Kp 2 ✓ | 27% · partly cloudy | 71 Good |
A ✓ means the forecast Kp clears Fort Smith's Kp 1 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 Smith looks clear skies (about 10% cloud on average). The aurora is best viewed away from town lights with a clear view toward the north.
The Pine Lake road into Wood Buffalo, or the Slave River rapids viewpoints. There is effectively no competing light in any direction.
Northern lights tours & stays in Fort Smith
Aurora tours from Fort Smith typically run $75–$280 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 Smith
Viator · guided tours · from $75
Aurora chases & photo tours in Fort Smith
GetYourGuide · guided tours · from $75
Cabins, lodges & glass igloos near Fort Smith
Booking.com · lodging