New Yorkers interested in seeing one of nature’s best light shows might be able to skip a trip to the North Pole and catch a glimpse from home instead. The northern lights, also known as aurora borealis, are set to appear above 17 U.S. cities next week, offering colorful views to residents in the northern parts of several states, New York included.
A forecast by the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute predicts that auroral activity will be high and visible in parts of the U.S. and Canada next Thursday, July 13, saying in part: “Weather permitting, highly active auroral displays will be visible overhead from Inuvik, Yellowknife, Rankin and Iqaluit to Vancouver, Helena, Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Bay City, Toronto, Montpelier, and Charlottetown, and visible low on the horizon from Salem, Boise, Cheyenne, Lincoln, Indianapolis and Annapolis.”
Some lucky New Yorkers will get a chance to view the phenomena. Here’s what you need to know and where in the state you need to be, to catch a glimpse.
Where could the northern lights appear in New York?
While overhead visibility is mostly likely to occur in the northern-most part of the state, the lights may also be viewable “low on the horizon” for those living south of the New York-Canadian border. Those in counties north of the Catskills will have a better shot at catching them.
What time will the northern lights be visible?
The best viewing time is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center says. Clear skies are necessary for people hoping to get a look, meaning those interested should try to distance themselves from city light pollution.
As the day approaches, NOAA will monitor the geomagnetic activity and release a forecast of its own.
A northern lights show in 17 states:Here’s where you might view them.
Where else can the northern lights be seen?
Other states that might get their own chance to see the lights…
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