The Northern Lights put on a stunning display across the UK on Monday evening, painting the night sky in shades of green and pink. The aurora borealis, typically confined to Arctic regions, was visible as far south as northern England and Wales due to heightened solar activity.
The Met Office confirmed that "severe geomagnetic storms" caused by a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) from the Sun were responsible for the spectacle. The CME, a massive cloud of charged particles, interacted with Earth's atmosphere to produce the vibrant colours.
Dazzling images captured the phenomenon across Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales, and parts of southern and eastern England. The display was even reported as far south as northern Italy. The Met Office noted that the aurora could continue into Tuesday night, though cloud and rain may hinder views in some areas.
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." She added that sightings depend on clear skies and darkness.
The best time to view the aurora is usually within an hour or two of midnight, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. To maximise chances, experts recommend finding a dark location away from light pollution and allowing eyes to adjust.
While activity is expected to wane by Wednesday, glimpses may still be possible in Scotland and Northern Ireland on Tuesday evening. The Met Office advises checking local forecasts for clear skies.
