The Northern Lights are set to light up UK skies today following a massive solar flare that erupted from the Sun on Sunday. The M5.8-class flare, originating from sunspot region AR4436, triggered immediate space weather events, including a moderate radio blackout over the Atlantic Ocean and parts of eastern Africa. This disruption affected high-frequency communications for aviators and mariners in the region.
Coronal Mass Ejection Heading Towards Earth
The solar flare also launched a coronal mass ejection (CME) — a cloud of magnetised solar plasma travelling at approximately 650 kilometres per second. The CME is expected to pass Earth on Wednesday, with a glancing blow anticipated to interact with the atmosphere, potentially creating aurora displays. The Met Office stated: "Auroral activity is expected to be mostly at background levels. However, there is the potential for a glancing CME arriving into early UTC on 13 May and also the likely onset of coronal hole fast winds on the 15 May."
Where to See the Northern Lights
Weather permitting, the Northern Lights could be visible in more southerly latitudes, including parts of the UK, particularly northern Scotland, and northerly parts of the US, according to forecasts. Stargazers are advised to look towards the northern horizon after dusk for the best chance of witnessing the phenomenon. Clear skies and minimal light pollution will enhance visibility.
