The Northern Lights could light up Philly skies tonight and we’re so excited to finally get a legit chance to see this natural phenomenon. Read on to find out how you too can catch tonight’s Aurora Borealis.
When can I see the northern lights in Philadelphia?
On the nights of Sunday, June 1 through early Monday, June 2, Philly has a great chance to witness one of the most stunning natural shows in the sky: the Northern Lights (also known as the Aurora Borealis). Thanks to a powerful G4 geomagnetic storm, these shimmering lights are expected to reach as far as south Alabama, California, and yes, Philly!
What time should I look up?
Your best chance to catch the action is between 10 p.m. Sunday and 4 a.m. Monday, with midnight to 5 a.m. being the prime time. That’s when the moon dips below the horizon, giving you the darkest skies possible.
Indeed, set your alarm, grab a blanket, and head to a spot with a clear view of the sky and preferably, away from the city lights.
Where should I go to see the see lights near Philly?
To truly experience the glow, you’ll want to escape the light pollution. Think Peace Valley Park or Valley Forge State Park. And yes, your phone camera may actually pick up the lights more clearly than the naked eye so use your phone to scan the sky.
Why is this such a big deal?
Philly missed the record-breaking G5 storm last May due to cloudy skies. That event lit up the sky all the way to the Caribbean in a once-in-a-lifetime moment. But this time, clear skies are in the forecast.
Important to note, this might just be our best shot in decades to witness the northern lights over our city.
So, charge your phone, grab some friends, and don’t sleep on this -literally! The sky’s putting on a show, and you don’t want to miss it.
Look up Philly!