Northern lights could appear tonight in Upstate NY. Here’s how to watch the cosmic glow

Northern Lights Could Appear Tonight in Upstate NY

A strong G3 geomagnetic storm is pushing the aurora borealis far beyond its usual Arctic boundaries, giving Upstate New York a rare chance to witness the northern lights tonight.

Storm Alert and Viewing Area

The Space Weather Prediction Center at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a G3, strong geomagnetic storm alert for Thursday night in early November. The display could be visible across nearly half of the continental United States — from parts of Nebraska and Wyoming to Pennsylvania and New York’s Hudson Valley.

What’s Powering the Cosmic Glow

The event is driven by solar activity that sent a surge of charged energy toward Earth. With a Kp index of 7 out of 9, the storm is considered powerful enough to push the auroral oval farther south than usual.

Best Viewing Conditions

Although skies across Upstate New York may range from partly to mostly cloudy around 10 p.m., visibility is still possible since the aurora can often pierce through thin clouds. The ideal time to observe the phenomenon is around midnight, when the storm is projected to reach its peak.

“The best time to look is around midnight, when the storm is expected to peak,” said NOAA scientists.

Expert Predictions

Meteorologist Eric Snitil expects the most vivid displays in northern New York, including areas near Plattsburgh, Rouses Point, and the eastern Adirondacks. If skies clear, the Catskills and Hudson Valley residents might also catch a glimpse of the light show.

Author’s Summary: A rare G3 geomagnetic storm may let Upstate New Yorkers witness the aurora borealis tonight, with peak visibility expected near midnight under partly cloudy skies.

newyorkupstate — 2025-11-06