PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Skies over western Pennsylvania may light up in rare fashion Monday night as the Northern Lights dip southward. Residents across Pittsburgh and surrounding communities could catch the colorful display through early Tuesday, provided clouds remain thin.
According to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, a strong solar storm is fueling aurora potential from New England to Northern California. While the best chance sits in the Pacific Northwest, parts of Pennsylvania may still glimpse the lights. Clear skies Monday evening improve visibility, but conditions will turn unsettled by midweek.
By Tuesday, Pittsburgh will see partly cloudy skies with highs near 80. Calm winds mean smooth commutes along I-376 in the morning. Tuesday night brings clouds but little chance of rain. The bigger change arrives Wednesday when showers and scattered thunderstorms develop after 2 p.m. Localized downpours could slow traffic on I-79 and Route 28.
Storm chances increase Wednesday night and Thursday with periods of heavy rain, thunder, and possible road ponding. The National Weather Service warns of potential travel delays, especially during rush hours. Residents should keep devices charged and avoid driving through flooded intersections.
Temperatures cool slightly by Friday, with highs in the mid-70s and clearing skies by Saturday. While early-week skies may hold aurora magic, the second half of the week turns stormy and unsettled.
Five-Day Forecast for Pittsburgh, PA:
- Tuesday: Partly cloudy, high 80, low 56.
- Wednesday: Showers and storms after 2 p.m., high 81, low 61.
- Thursday: Showers likely, storm possible before 8 p.m., high 76, low 54.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high 75, low 55.
- Saturday: Sunny and clear, high 78, low 50.
