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

Northern Lights Could Shine Over Upstate New York Tonight

A powerful G3 geomagnetic storm is pushing the aurora borealis far south from its usual Arctic location. Upstate New York may witness one of nature’s most stunning displays tonight: the northern lights.

Storm Alert and Coverage

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a G3, strong geomagnetic storm warning for Thursday night, November 6. This event could illuminate the sky with colors typically seen only near the Arctic Circle.

Nearly half of the continental United States might catch a glimpse of the aurora, including parts of Nebraska, Wyoming, Pennsylvania, and New York’s Hudson Valley.

Cause and Intensity

The storm results from intense solar activity that sent a burst of energy toward Earth. With a Kp index of 7 out of 9, the storm is strong enough to push the auroral oval much farther south than usual.

Viewing Conditions and Best Time

Upstate New York’s skies could be partly to mostly cloudy around 10 p.m., but the aurora can sometimes shine through thin clouds. According to NOAA, the best time to watch is around midnight, when the storm is expected to peak, though earlier sightings are possible.

Local Viewing Recommendations

“The aurora can often shine through thin cloud cover.” — NOAA

Summary: Tonight’s strong geomagnetic storm could bring spectacular northern lights far into Upstate New York, offering a rare cosmic show for many Americans outside the Arctic Circle.

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Syracuse.com Syracuse.com — 2025-11-06

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