Washington, DC – A rare glow could stretch over the nation’s capital tonight as the Northern Lights push farther south than usual. Residents across Washington, Virginia, and the broader Mid-Atlantic may catch the aurora rippling across the horizon through early Tuesday if skies remain clear.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, a coronal mass ejection from the sun is driving this event. The storm could fuel moderate to strong geomagnetic activity, making auroras visible well south of their normal range. Skies in Washington remain mostly clear, giving locals a chance to witness the phenomenon late tonight into Tuesday morning.
Commuters along I-395 and I-66 will find calm driving conditions through Tuesday, with no rain or wind hazards expected. Daytime highs will stay mild, peaking near 79 degrees on Tuesday before climbing into the low 80s midweek. Residents should use tonight’s opportunity to step outside after dark, avoiding bright city lights to catch the best view of the Northern Lights.
By Wednesday, sunshine dominates with highs in the low 80s. Thursday turns warmer, reaching 85, before rain chances return Thursday night. The weekend looks stable with mostly sunny skies and highs in the low 80s.
Meteorological fall begins this week with a mix of clear nights and comfortable days — but tonight’s rare aurora may be the main show.
Five Day Forecast for Washington, DC
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 79. Low 59.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 81. Low 63.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 85. Showers possible at night. Low 64.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 81. Low 63.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 83. Low 61.
