Another solar storm is coming. Will Iowans get a glimpse of northern lights tonight?

A geomagnetic storm could increase the odds of viewing the northern lights in the northern parts of the Midwest for Wednesday evening.

A coronal mass ejection erupted July 21, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. This is an eruption of solar material, and when it arrives at Earth a geomagnetic storm can occur. This increases the likelihood of a geomagnetic storm.

Where could the northern lights be visible?

Aurora borealis is expected to be visible in Canada and the northern parts of the United States, according to NOAA. The likelihood of a G2 geomagnetic storm has decreased, according to Mike Bettwy, operations chief of the Space and Weather Prediction Center.

"It's possible some aurora could still occur in the northern tier of the U.S. — and potentially Iowa — and other locales farther north tonight, but it is looking less likely and certainly wouldn't be a widespread event," Bettwy said.

Where should you go for the best northern lights viewing?

It is also difficult to determine which cities will have the best chances of the aurora being visible, Bettwy said. But maps show the aurora could be seen north of Minneapolis.

Residents in central Iowa will likely have about a four-hour drive ahead of them if they want increase their odds of seeing the northern lights.

The aurora does not need to be directly overhead to be seen. It can be observed from hundreds of miles away when the aurora is bright and conditions are right, according to NOAA.

The further north you go, the better your odds are seeing the lights, Bettwy said.

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Historically, the best time to see the lights is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. You'll also want to get away from light pollution from cities and find dark places.

You may want to bring your phone with you when you step out to view the aurora. The camera on your device is sensitive and can pick up the lights better than your eye, USA TODAY reported.

What is the northern lights forecast for Iowa?

Wildfires on the West Coast of the United States have resulted in haze and smoke coverage for the Midwest. This could also lessen the chances of the aurora's visibility, Bettwy said.

Fortunately, there are no major weather events expected across Iowa that would worsen visibility for Wednesday evening. There is a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms, according to the National Weather Service.

Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at kkealey@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter at @Kkealey17.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Northern lights forecast tonight includes Midwest. Can Iowans see it?