Northern Lights Could Be Visible In Pennsylvania Tuesday

The northern lights could be visible over parts of Pennsylvania Tuesday night, though viewing conditions may be limited, according to federal forecasters.

Forecast maps from the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center show Pennsylvania near the southern edge of the aurora visibility zone for Tuesday night. Those farther north of the line are expected to have a better chance of seeing the lights.

A NOAA forecast map shows PA near the southern edge of the northern lights visibility zone Tuesday night. Credit: NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center

NOAA forecasts indicate a minor (G1) geomagnetic storm is possible Tuesday due to lingering solar wind effects, which can sometimes push aurora visibility farther south.

Activity is expected to weaken quickly, with lower chances for visibility on Wednesday and Thursday.

Any potential viewing in the Philadelphia region would likely be low on the northern horizon and dependent on clear skies and minimal light pollution.

According to the National Weather Service, skies will be clear Tuesday night. There's a chance of showers after 4 a.m.

The aurora has been visible in Eastern Pennsylvania in the past, occasionally lighting up the sky in shades of green, pink and purple during stronger geomagnetic events. An October 2025 geomagnetic storm produced vivid pink auroras in the skies across the Philadelphia region. See images below: