The culprit behind this celestial spectacle? Powerful eruptions known as coronal mass ejections from the sun, which are expected to reach Earth in the coming days. These eruptions could trigger stunning displays of aurora, visible across Scotland, Northern Ireland, and parts of northern England and Wales.
Krista Hammond, the Met Office’s space weather manager, explains: “Multiple coronal mass ejections from the sun are expected to reach Earth in the coming days bringing the potential for aurora visibility over the UK, particularly on Friday night.”
While the short nights at this time of year might limit the visibility window, there's still a good chance of sightings on Friday night. And the excitement might not end there, as aurora visibility could persist through Saturday night, albeit less widespread than on Friday, with northern parts of the UK having the best viewing potential.
But what factors increase our chances of catching this cosmic light show? Stephen Dixon, a Met Office spokesperson, highlights the importance of clear skies and enhanced solar activity. He notes, “There could even be [aurora] visibility further south if you have the right equipment.”
However, it's not just the sky that's making headlines this weekend. The weather forecast for Saturday promises sunny and dry conditions for most of the UK, with temperatures soaring up to 26°C in the south-east. But don't stash away your umbrella just yet—Sunday could bring intense rainfall and thunderstorms.
According to Dixon, “Two yellow weather warnings are in place for thunderstorms on Sunday – one for western parts of Northern Ireland and the other covering a large part of England and Wales.”
The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has also weighed in on the matter, issuing a G4 geomagnetic storm watch for this weekend—the second highest on its scale. The last time such a warning was issued was back in 2005.
NOAA warns that the sun has been particularly active, producing strong solar flares since Wednesday. These flares have resulted in five outbursts of plasma capable of disrupting satellites in orbit and power grids here on Earth.
In fact, an extreme G5 geomagnetic storm in 2003 caused power outages in Sweden and damaged power transformers in South Africa. This time around, NOAA suggests that the latest storm could even produce Northern Lights in the US as far south as Alabama and northern California.
So, how can you make the most of this celestial event? Keep an eye on the weather forecast for your area and be prepared to venture out into the night if conditions are right. Find a spot away from city lights for the best viewing experience, and don't forget to bring along some warm clothing—it might get chilly out there!
Whether you're a seasoned stargazer or just looking for a magical weekend activity, the potential to witness the Northern Lights in the UK is an opportunity not to be missed. So, gather your friends and family, and get ready to be awed by the beauty of the cosmos right here on Earth. Who knows, you might just witness a spectacle that will leave you star-struck for years to come.
