The Northern Lights are set to dazzle UK skies again soon, space experts reveal.
Northern Lights Surprise Last Weekend
On May 11, much of the UK witnessed a stunning display of pink and green Aurora Borealis. This rare treat followed an extreme geomagnetic storm, making the lights more visible than usual, says the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
The storm was triggered by powerful solar flares and ejections of coronal plasma that also risked disrupting power grids and communications on Earth and in orbit.
When Will the Northern Lights Return?
Met Office space weather expert Krista Hammond predicts the Northern Lights could make a comeback within days. She explains:
“The sunspot region will be coming back round onto the Earth-facing side of the sun.”
We’re currently at solar maximum, meaning more sunspots are popping up. This ups the chances of geomagnetic storms—and therefore more auroras lighting up our skies.
But Hammond tempers hopes for a repeat of last weekend’s extraordinary show.
“It was such a unique set of circumstances that happened last weekend. The chances of the same sunspots doing the same thing again – it’s probably quite slim.”
Still, with solar activity rising, there’s a good chance of sightings in the coming weeks, months and years, she adds.
Where to Catch the Northern Lights in the UK?
The strength of geomagnetic storms dictates where the aurora can be seen. Though not as intense as the last storm, some smaller solar ejections are heading our way, offering potential light shows — mainly in northern parts of the UK like Scotland, Northern Ireland, and northern England.
“Just because we’re not seeing aurora across the whole of the UK, it doesn’t mean that we’re not going to see it in some areas.”
So keep your eyes peeled—those magical Northern Lights could be back sooner than you think!
