Northern Lights May Appear Tonight in Upstate New York
A strong G3 geomagnetic storm is pushing the aurora borealis much farther south than usual, offering Upstate New York a chance to witness this stunning natural light show. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a G3 geomagnetic storm alert for Thursday night.
Storm Details and Visibility
The storm is driven by solar activity sending a surge of energy toward Earth. With a Kp index of 7 out of 9, this strong geomagnetic storm can push the auroral oval far below its usual Arctic locations. Nearly half of the continental U.S. might see the northern lights, including regions as far south as Nebraska, Wyoming, Pennsylvania, and New York’s Hudson Valley.
Viewing Conditions and Locations
- The Upstate New York sky may be partly to mostly cloudy near 10 p.m., but the aurora can sometimes show through thin clouds.
- The best viewing time is around midnight when the storm peaks, though earlier sightings are possible.
- Prime spots for observing are northern New York areas like Plattsburgh, Rouses Point, and the eastern Adirondacks.
- The Catskills and Hudson Valley also have chances if cloud cover is minimal.
Meteorologist Eric Snitil says, "Prime viewing in northern New York, especially near Plattsburgh, Rouses Point, and the eastern Adirondacks. The Catskills and Hudson Valley could also get a show if the clouds cooperate."
The storm could illuminate the night sky with colors usually seen only near the Arctic Circle, creating a rare and mesmerizing spectacle for many across the U.S.
Summary: A powerful G3 geomagnetic storm tonight may bring the northern lights as far south as Upstate New York, with the best viewing around midnight if skies remain clear.