The UK’s night skies were transformed into a breathtaking canvas of green and pink on Monday evening, as the Aurora Borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights, put on a spectacular display. This natural phenomenon, usually confined to regions near the Arctic Circle, was visible across vast swathes of the country due to heightened solar activity.
Dazzling images captured on Monday showcased the celestial spectacle across Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales, extending as far south as parts of south-west, southern, eastern, and northern England. The mesmerizing light show is expected to continue in some areas on Tuesday.
The Met Office confirmed that “severe geomagnetic storms” were responsible, producing “widespread auroras visible across the UK, with reports extending as far south as northern Italy.” The vibrant lights were attributed to a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME), where the Sun expels immense clouds of particles.
Krista Hammond, Met Office Space Weather Manager, said: “There is still some uncertainty around the exact timing of the CME’s arrival, but it is expected overnight tonight or tomorrow morning. The CME is likely to result in geomagnetic storming, giving the potential to view the aurora.”
However, sightings are dependent on the CME arriving during hours of darkness and clear skies. Unfortunately, cloud and rain on Tuesday evening may make viewing difficult, even if the timing is favourable. The effects of the CME may linger into Tuesday night, with aurora sightings possible across Scotland, perhaps also Northern Ireland and northern England, where skies are clear.
According to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Centre, the best time to view the Northern Lights is usually within an hour or two of midnight, when the level of geomagnetic activity increases.
While the activity is expected to wane, glimpses may still be possible in parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland on Tuesday. Enthusiasts are advised to get away from areas with light pollution and allow their eyes to adjust to the darkness for the best chance of witnessing this natural wonder.