Philadelphia, PA – Skywatchers across the Mid-Atlantic may have a rare opportunity to spot the aurora borealis overnight tonight into early Friday, as increased solar activity raises the potential for northern lights visibility between Thursday night, Jan. 2, and Friday morning, Jan. 3, 2026.
According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, geomagnetic conditions are forecast to reach a Kp index of 6, indicating a moderate geomagnetic storm. While auroras are most commonly seen farther north, these conditions can allow the auroral oval to expand southward, placing parts of the Mid-Atlantic region within viewing range near the northern horizon.
The best chance for visibility is expected after midnight, when geomagnetic activity often peaks and skies are darkest. Areas with the highest potential include northern Pennsylvania, upstate New York near the Pennsylvania border, northern New Jersey, and higher elevations of Maryland and West Virginia, particularly in rural areas with minimal light pollution.
In major metro areas such as Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and northern Virginia, visibility may be limited due to city lights and possible cloud cover. However, faint green or reddish glows could still be visible under ideal conditions, especially through long-exposure photography.
Auroras occur when charged particles from the sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field, energizing gases in the upper atmosphere. While not guaranteed, Kp 6 geomagnetic events have historically produced aurora sightings as far south as the Mid-Atlantic, particularly during winter months when nights are longest.
NOAA officials also advise residents planning to watch the skies to prepare for cold overnight temperatures, dress in layers, and limit prolonged exposure outdoors.
