Northern Lights May Be Visible Tonight in Upstate New York
A strong G3 geomagnetic storm is pushing the aurora borealis far south from its usual Arctic location. Upstate New York could witness this stunning natural light display tonight, providing a rare viewing opportunity.
Geomagnetic Storm Details
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center has issued an alert for a strong geomagnetic storm, classified as G3, expected Thursday night in early November. This storm could illuminate the sky with colors typically seen only near the Arctic Circle.
Viewing Area and Conditions
Nearly half of the continental U.S. might see the Aurora Borealis, including areas as far south as parts of Nebraska, Wyoming, Pennsylvania, and New York’s Hudson Valley.
The storm results from increased solar activity sending energy toward Earth, with a Kp index of 7 out of 9, indicating a strong event that pushes the auroral oval farther south.
Best Times and Locations to Watch
- Ideal viewing time is around midnight, when the storm is expected to peak, though earlier sightings might occur.
- Skies in upstate New York could be partly to mostly cloudy around 10 p.m., but the aurora can sometimes appear through thin clouds.
- Meteorologist Eric Snitil highlights northern New York near Plattsburgh, Rouses Point, and the eastern Adirondacks as prime viewing spots.
- The Catskills and Hudson Valley also have chances to see the lights if clouds are minimal.
"The best time to look is around midnight, when the storm is expected to peak, according to the NOAA, though earlier sightings are possible."
"Meteorologist Eric Snitil predicts prime viewing in northern New York, especially near Plattsburgh, Rouses Point, and the eastern Adirondacks."
Even with some cloud cover, the aurora borealis may still be visible, so observers should remain hopeful for this celestial spectacle.
Author’s summary: Tonight’s strong geomagnetic storm could bring the northern lights far south, offering a rare chance for many in Upstate New York and beyond to witness this breathtaking natural phenomenon.