WASHINGTON — Ok, DMV, let's try this again. For the last few nights, only certain locations across the DMV were able to see the Northern Lights, as a strong geomagnetic storm rages on. The rest of the region was stuck under what seems like a blanket of clouds, unable to get a crisp view.
Once again Space Weather Prediction Center said that the viewing of the aurora will be possible at lower latitudes Sunday night. And once again the DMV will have clouds in the forecast. It looks like the biggest break in the clouds Sunday night may come between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m. Feel free to start checking anytime after sunset.
What are the chances of seeing the Northern Lights in the DMV Sunday Night?
The chances are low-to-medium for two main reasons: The viewing is better further north (Canada, Ohio, Greenland, etc.) and there will still be clouds around this evening and tonight.
When is the best time to see it?
The best time to get get a view Sunday night would be between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m., based on forecasted cloud coverage. During these hours, roughly 60 percent of the skies will be clear. You can certainly take a look at anytime after sunset. Skies won't completely clear so it will depend on if you get a break in the clouds in your neighborhood. Keep watching the sky! Even if you don't see anything initially, use your camera or phone's camera, as these are more sensitive to light and could pick up better images than the eye.
There were a few reports of aurora views just before sunrise Saturday morning in Howard County and Reston, so be on the lookout!
Where is the best place in the DMV to see it?
The further north the better and away from cities. Areas along the Maryland and Pennsylvania borders may have a slightly better chance of viewing the aurora.
What about Monday?
The aurora may be visible once again Monday night as the geomagnetic storm continues.
The Northern Lights put on a spectacular show across the U.S. Friday night, leaving stunning views during a strong geomagnetic storm. As those photos flooded social media and the web, some in the DMV missed the view. Cloud cover blocked much of the aurora views Friday night. The region had another chance Saturday but clouds, heavy rain and thunderstorms ruined the view.
