STATE COLLEGE, Pa. – Skies across Pennsylvania could light up with rare Northern Lights overnight into Tuesday morning, giving residents a dazzling start to meteorological fall. Those hoping to catch the show should head away from city lights and look north after dark.
According to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, a coronal mass ejection racing toward Earth is expected to spark geomagnetic storm conditions through Tuesday morning. That could push auroras as far south as Pennsylvania, with the best viewing chances in clear rural areas along I-80 and across central counties.
Tuesday will otherwise bring mostly sunny skies and highs near 77 degrees. Calm winds early will pick up from the south by afternoon, keeping conditions warm but manageable for travel.
By midweek, sunshine holds, but rain chances rise late Thursday. The National Weather Service reports thunderstorms are likely Thursday night into early Friday, with potential heavy downpours impacting commutes on Route 322 and I-99. Power outages and minor flooding may also occur in low-lying spots.
Residents should plan ahead by charging devices, checking travel routes, and allowing extra time later this week. Outdoor events will be safe through Wednesday, but Thursday evening could turn stormy quickly.
Skies calm again into the weekend, though cooler air settles in by Sunday.
Five Day Forecast for State College, PA
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 77.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 77.
- Thursday: Partly sunny, chance of storms after 2 p.m., high near 78.
- Friday: Chance of showers before 2 p.m., high near 73.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 73.
