Aurora Borealis Forecast for Upstate New York and Connecticut This Weekend

Published May 10, 2024 | Updated May 11, 2024 at 2:13 PM

An unusually strong solar storm hitting Earth could produce northern lights in the US, and potentially disrupt power and communications.

There is a chance you might be able to see the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, in upstate New York and Connecticut this weekend.

The National Weather Service has issued an aurora watch for Saturday night, May 11, into Sunday morning, May 12.

The Northern Lights are a natural light display that occurs when charged particles from the sun interact with Earth's magnetic field. The particles enter the Earth's atmosphere and collide with atoms and molecules, causing them to emit light.

The Northern Lights are typically visible in high-latitude regions, such as Alaska and Canada. However, they can sometimes be seen in lower latitudes during periods of strong solar activity.

The solar storm that is expected to hit Earth this weekend is expected to be one of the strongest in years. This could increase the chances of seeing the Northern Lights in areas where they are not typically visible.

If you are hoping to see the Northern Lights, find a spot with dark skies and clear weather. The best time to see the lights is typically between 10 PM and 2 AM.

The Northern Lights are a beautiful and awe-inspiring sight. If you have the opportunity to see them, be sure to take it.