The Aurora Borealis was visible across several states last night and could return to parts of Pennsylvania tonight. NOAA has issued a Severe Magnetic Storm Alert, warning that satellites and some communications might be affected. AccuWeather cautions that cloud cover may block sightings; NOAA recommends looking between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. away from city lights for the best chance to see the aurora. Check local weather and real-time aurora forecasts before heading out.
Northern Lights Could Return to Pennsylvania Skies Tonight — NOAA Issues Severe Magnetic Storm Alert
The Aurora Borealis was visible across several states last night and could return to parts of Pennsylvania tonight. NOAA has issued a Severe Magnetic Storm Alert, warning that satellites and some communications might be affected. AccuWeather cautions that cloud cover may block sightings; NOAA recommends looking between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. away from city lights for the best chance to see the aurora. Check local weather and real-time aurora forecasts before heading out.
02:09 PM, 11/13/2025Science
Northern lights may be visible again over parts of Pennsylvania
The Aurora Borealis — commonly known as the northern lights — was visible across several states last night, including parts of Pennsylvania. Forecasters say conditions may allow the aurora to appear again this evening.
What causes the lights? These displays occur when charged particles from the Sun collide with Earth's magnetic field, producing colorful bands, curtains and swirls across the night sky. Because the Sun is approaching the more active phase of its roughly 11-year cycle, auroras have been appearing farther south than usual — in some cases as far as Florida.
Potential impacts The same solar activity that creates auroras can affect technology. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a Severe Magnetic Storm Alert, warning that satellites, GPS, power systems and some communications could experience disruptions.
Viewing tips NOAA posts guidance on its website for aurora watching. If skies clear, your best chance to see the lights is away from city lights to reduce light pollution. NOAA recommends looking between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. for the strongest chance of activity. Keep in mind that cloud cover can block the view — AccuWeather notes that clouds will be problematic for some skywatchers tonight.
Practical advice Check local weather and real-time aurora forecasts (KP index and NOAA alerts) before heading out. Bring a warm coat, a tripod for photographing the sky, and allow your eyes to adjust to the dark for at least 15 minutes.
Read the original report on pennlive.com for updates.