New York, June 4 — Stargazers across New York State might be treated to another breathtaking celestial display tonight, as the northern lights — or aurora borealis — may again become visible across the state, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Another chance to catch the aurora in the sky
After a spectacular light show on Sunday night, when a geomagnetic storm pushed the aurora down from Canada into northern New York, NOAA is forecasting a 10% to 50% probability of auroral visibility for Monday night into early Tuesday.
NOAA’s aurora forecast map indicates the first glimmers may appear as early as 10:45 p.m. in northern regions of the state. The band of visibility is expected to expand southward, reaching more of New York, including possibly southern areas, by around 12:30 a.m. on Tuesday.
Where and how to see the lights
Although direct overhead visibility will depend on geomagnetic activity, NOAA notes that if the aurora is sufficiently bright, people living up to 620 miles (1,000 kilometers) away might still glimpse it — provided darkness and distance from city lights are in their favor.
The best views are expected in areas with low light pollution, such as upstate New York, parts of the Adirondacks, or even Long Island’s eastern tip, where sky conditions can be clearer.
NOAA emphasized that the aurora is more than a visual treat — it offers a rare, tangible experience of space weather, usually accessible only by traveling to arctic latitudes.
For the most accurate and current guidance, check the real-time aurora map on NOAA’s website.
