Northern Lights May Appear Tonight in Upstate New York
A powerful G3 geomagnetic storm is pushing the aurora borealis far south from its usual Arctic location. Upstate New York could witness one of nature’s most stunning displays tonight.
Geomagnetic Storm Details
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a strong G3 geomagnetic storm alert for Thursday night, November 6. This storm might illuminate the sky with colors typically seen near the Arctic Circle, reaching nearly half of the continental U.S. This includes parts of Nebraska, Wyoming, Pennsylvania, and New York’s Hudson Valley.
Cause and Intensity of the Storm
The storm is driven by intense solar activity sending energy surging toward Earth. With a Kp index of 7 out of 9, this event is classified as a strong geomagnetic storm, capable of pushing the auroral oval much farther south than usual.
Viewing Conditions and Best Time
Skies over Upstate New York may be partly to mostly cloudy around 10 p.m., but the northern lights can still shine through thin clouds. The prime viewing time is expected near midnight when the storm peaks, although earlier sightings are possible.
Expert Prediction on Visibility
- Meteorologist Eric Snitil highlights northern New York as the best viewing area, especially near Plattsburgh, Rouses Point, and the eastern Adirondacks.
- The Catskills and Hudson Valley may also see the aurora if clouds clear enough.
"The best time to look is around midnight, when the storm is expected to peak, though earlier sightings are possible." — NOAA
"Prime viewing in northern New York, especially near Plattsburgh, Rouses Point, and the eastern Adirondacks." — Meteorologist Eric Snitil
Summary: A strong geomagnetic storm tonight could bring the northern lights well south to Upstate New York, with the best chances around midnight despite possible clouds.