Northern Lights Might Be Visible Tonight in Upstate New York
A strong G3 geomagnetic storm is pushing the northern lights far south of their usual Arctic region, offering a rare chance to see the aurora borealis in Upstate New York.
Geomagnetic Storm Details
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a G3, strong geomagnetic storm alert for Thursday night, November 6. This storm is driven by solar activity sending an energy surge toward Earth, with a Kp index of 7 out of 9.
As a result, the auroral oval is expected to expand much farther south than normal, potentially lighting up the skies of nearly half the continental U.S., including parts of Nebraska, Wyoming, Pennsylvania, and New York's Hudson Valley.
Viewing Conditions and Recommendations
Upstate New York could experience partly to mostly cloudy skies around 10 p.m., but the aurora often shines through thin clouds. The best viewing time is around midnight when the storm is predicted to peak, although earlier sightings are possible.
- Meteorologist Eric Snitil highlights northern New York as prime viewing locations, especially near Plattsburgh, Rouses Point, and the eastern Adirondacks.
- The Catskills and Hudson Valley may also witness the lights, weather permitting.
"Upstate skies could be partly to mostly cloudy around 10 p.m., but don’t give up hope — the aurora can often shine through thin cloud cover."
"Meteorologist Eric Snitil predicts prime viewing in northern New York, especially near Plattsburgh, Rouses Point, and the eastern Adirondacks."
Author’s summary: A strong geomagnetic storm will bring the northern lights well south, offering Upstate New York a rare chance to observe the aurora borealis around midnight, weather allowing.