Central PA uniquely situated for possible Northern Lights display Sunday night

Another severe geomagnetic storm occurred Friday evening which means the Sun produced a large coronal mass ejection into space. These mass ejections interact with Earth's geomagnetic field and we see that interaction in the form of the Northern Lights. Some of the energy from that storm peaked this morning but there *may* be another peak later tonight resulting in an aurora display that could rival what we saw back in October of 2024.

These peak intensities are very difficult to predict but when they do occur, late evening into the overnight is when we often see the best auroral display (11pm - 2am). Much of the country is dealing with wildfire smoke right now and it's so thick in some places that viewing the Northern Lights will be severely hindered. We've seen a little smoke in the sky today but the good news is that it should clear this evening along with any clouds. New England won't have much of a smoke problem but they will have plenty of clouds obscuring any good view.

Below is a model projection of the smoke plume later tonight after 11pm. Notice much of Central PA is in the clear.

Here's a breakdown of the map below:

BLUE: Viewing will be best with a camera. Make sure your long exposure setting is on as long exposure shots capture more light.

GREEN: Viewing possible with the naked eye. A vibrant glow is even possible. Look north away from light pollution. Long exposure shots will work well.

PURPLE: This is where the viewing will be the best and most vibrant. The Northern Lights will likely be visible overhead!

You must find a place AWAY from any light pollution. Even just a little light pollution can greatly impact your ability to view the light display, especially with the naked eye.

Bottom line if the Northern Lights do make an appearance, Central PA is in one of the best locations because skies look to be clear of smoke and clouds late tonight! For now, it's just a waiting game to see if we get another spike in geomagnetic activity after the sun sets this evening.