Stunning images captured the Northern Lights as they made a rare appearance across the UK last night. The Aurora Borealis was witnessed in Scotland, northern England, Wales, and as far south as Norfolk.
Forecasters say the phenomenon may continue for the next few weeks due to two coinciding space weather patterns: high-speed solar winds and a coronal hole near the Sun's equator. These factors increase the chance of geomagnetic disturbances, which bring the aurora further south.
A Met Office spokesman explained: 'We are now in a period, lasting a few weeks, where these two factors are working together to increase the chances of geomagnetic disturbances, which in turn bring with them the aurora.' The strength of the disturbance determines how far south the aurora is visible.
The spokesman added that the equinoctial periods in spring and autumn tend to produce an increase in aurora compared with winter and summer. Clear skies are needed for the best views.
