Northern lights dazzle skies over New York and New Jersey. See the stunning images

As forecasters kept an eye out for a potentially dangerous geomagnetic storm, the northern lights, or aurora borealis, performed above New York and New Jersey during the course of the night.

Photographs show the northeastern sky turning pink and purple, even for observers in New York City.

Although light pollution from the city frequently makes it difficult to see the northern lights, experts advise locating a level spot with a good view of the horizon. Generally speaking, the optimal viewing hours are from 10 p.m. until 2 a.m.

Luckily, Thursday and Friday’s forecast was rather clear. Our First Alert Weather team, however, believes it’s doubtful that the show will be repeated on Friday night.

But don’t worry, this is an important month to watch the skies. The Orionid meteor shower peaks on October 20 and 21, while the next supermoon is expected to occur on October 16 or 17.

The New York State Parks Department says Long Island parks will stay open late Friday night for those hoping to catch a glimpse. The following parks will have extended hours:

• Jones Beach State Park – West End 2 (west parking lot)
• Sunken Meadow State Park – Field 3
• Montauk Point State Park – Upper Parking Lot
• Wildwood State Park – Main Parking Lot
• Orient Beach State Park – Main Parking Lot
• Hallock State Park Preserve

What is a geomagnetic storm?

For the G4 storm—the second-highest classification—the Space Weather Prediction Center of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has issued a geomagnetic storm watch.

“On October 8, in the evening, a rapid CME erupted from the Sun; it is expected to reach Earth on October 10. The SWPC stated on social media that after analysis of this CME, it has the potential to reach G4 levels both upon arrival and throughout CME passage.

The Office of Emergency Management in New York City stated that it was keeping an eye on the circumstances and any possible effects on the infrastructure.

“These storms can disrupt our planet’s magnetic field, leading to potential interference with radio communications, satellite functionality, and in some cases, power grid stability,” the OEM stated.

Officials said power outages were unlikely, but in the event of an problem, make sure to stock up on:

• Flashlights and batteries
• One gallon of water per person, per day
• Non-perishable snacks

New Yorkers are encouraged to sign up for the city’s Notify NYC alerts for real-time updates.

Earlier this year, NOAA said an “extreme” G5 storm reached Earth, and officials also warned the power grid or communication systems could be impacted.