Northern Lights red alert issued as Aurora Borealis to be visible tonight – Wales Online
The Northern Lights are set to be visible tonight as a rare red alert for the Aurora Borealis phenomenon has been issued across the UK. The service monitoring atmospheric conditions in the UK, Aurora Watch, confirmed there is a likely chance of seeing the stunning lights. The alert peaked at 6 pm, indicating that it’s likely that the aurora will be visible by eye and camera from anywhere in the UK. However, cloudy skies could potentially spoil the spectacle for some. The alert was recorded at Submurgh Head Lighthouse on Sumburgh Head at the Mainland of Shetland’s southern tip.
Increased activity from the Aurora Borealis is being observed as the sun enters its period of greatest activity, meaning more colourful displays of the Northern Lights could be seen until mid-next year. This is due to an 11-year cycle of solar activity which includes peaks of intense activity followed by quieter periods. During these active bursts, also known as solar maximum, the sun releases charged particles that travel through space at speeds of around one million miles per hour. Some of these particles are captured by the Earth’s magnetic field and collide with oxygen and nitrogen atoms and molecules in the atmosphere.
In pursuit of the ultimate shot of the aurora borealis, Iain Watts suggests that it’s all about getting ready beforehand. He recommends using an Aurora forecasting app for a tip-off on when and where the northern lights could appear. For smartphone photography buffs, it is vital to ensure their camera is in Night mode—it might switch automatically, but if not, do so manually for optimal results. Should you aspire for more professional-grade photographs with your phone, consider downloading a long exposure app to tackle the technical aspects.
Niamh Kirk from The Mirror also shared her top tips for viewing the lights, advising enthusiasts to seek out spots with minimal light pollution and a dark, clear sky—conditions seldom found in large urban areas. She notes, “You want the sky to be as clear and as dark as possible, so sadly it’s a lot more tricky to spot them from big cities. You also want to try and be as north as possible, I am in the Midlands, but I suspect it was even more vivid for those up in Scotland.”
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a natural phenomenon that occurs when charged particles from the sun interact with the Earth’s atmosphere. These interactions produce beautiful light displays in the sky, usually in polar regions but occasionally visible in more southern locations during periods of high solar activity.
If you are planning to witness the Northern Lights tonight, make sure to find a dark, clear spot away from city lights for the best viewing experience. Remember to check the weather forecast to ensure clear skies and keep an eye out for updates from Aurora Watch for the latest alerts on aurora visibility in your area. Don’t forget to charge your camera and set it to Night mode or use a long exposure app for capturing the mesmerising beauty of the Aurora Borealis.
In conclusion, the UK is in for a treat tonight as the Northern Lights are expected to grace the night sky with their spectacular presence. Whether you are a seasoned aurora chaser or a first-time viewer, this is an opportunity not to be missed. So, gather your warm clothes, charge your camera, and head out to witness one of nature’s most awe-inspiring displays—the magical dance of the Northern Lights.