RALEIGH, N.C. – North Carolina residents may catch a rare Northern Lights display tonight into early Tuesday as meteorological fall begins. Clear skies across Wake County boost viewing chances, making highways like I-40 potential hot spots for skywatchers late tonight.
According to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, a coronal mass ejection traveling more than 2 million mph could fuel auroras as far south as Virginia, Kentucky, and the Carolinas through Tuesday morning. While the strongest displays are expected across the Midwest and Pacific Northwest, skies over Raleigh may faintly glow if conditions remain clear.
Drivers traveling late on I-40 and I-440 should pull over safely if they plan to view the sky, as distracted driving poses risks. Residents are encouraged to find dark areas away from city lights for the best chance to see the aurora.
Daytime weather looks calm, with mostly sunny skies and highs near 81°F for Labor Day. Northeastern winds will stay light, keeping humidity levels in check. Tuesday remains sunny with highs near 80°F, but temperatures rise steadily midweek.
By Wednesday, Raleigh heats to 83°F under sunny skies, climbing further into the mid-80s by Thursday. Nights stay comfortable, with lows in the upper 50s and low 60s through midweek before edging into the upper 60s.
While the aurora may fade after Tuesday morning, clear weather offers excellent stargazing conditions all week. Local officials urge residents to plan outdoor viewing responsibly and expect warmer afternoons ahead.
Five Day Forecast for Raleigh, NC
- Tuesday: Sunny, high near 80°F, low near 59°F.
- Wednesday: Sunny, high near 83°F, low around 62°F.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 86°F, low near 67°F.
- Friday: Sunny, high near 83°F, low around 67°F.
- Saturday: Sunny, high near 80°F, low in the mid-60s.
