If you've ever wanted to catch a glimpse of the spectacular northern lights - this could be your best ever chance.

According to weather-watchers in the US, a rare magnetic storm could increase the likelihood of seeing the phenomenon here in the UK.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Centre has issued a magnetic storm warning - something it very rarely does.

The storm is set to continue for 48 hours with the lights, known as the aurora borealis, particularly visible in the first 24 hours.

The northern lights display is created by fast moving charged particles from a high speed solar wind stream emanating from the sun.

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“The northern lights appear as large areas of colour including pale green, pink, shades of red, yellow, blue and violet in the direction due north," said the Met Office.

“During a weak aurora, the colours are very faint and spread out whereas an intense aurora features greater numbers of and brighter colours which can be seen higher in the sky with a distinct arc.

“The northern lights are best seen in darkness, away from any light pollution. The lights generally extend from 50 miles to as high as 400 miles above the Earth’s surface.

The Aurora Borealis also know as the Northern Lights
The Aurora Borealis

Will I be able to see the northern lights?

This map shows the UK’s KP number. The stronger the Aurora, the larger the KP number and the further south it can be seen.

Blighty currently sits on a KP number of 9.


The Aurora KP map of the world


If that number is greater or equal to the number on the map for your location, you’re in luck.

You should also check the ovation map.

It is a good idea to get confirmation of activity with NOAA’s Ovation map .

The KP number provides information on how large the storm is, but the Ovation map gives a 30 to 40 minute forecast of the size of the aurora along with a color-coded probability of seeing it in different locations.

NOAA’s Ovation map shows the location of the northern lights

They say an Aurora can flare up with only a 30 minute warning so advise those who want to watch it to keep checking the map for updates.

Check the weather

Auroras happen in the upper atmosphere, so if there are clouds blocking your view of the stars, you won’t be able to see it.


Unfortunately, the UK is currently experiencing severe fog , which could spoil the view if it continues through the night.

Find a dark spot

For best chances you should find a place with un-obscured views north and away from light pollution.

The best place to see Aurora borealis is in Scotland, but on a very clear night it can be seen off the coast.

Unless you are very far north, the auroras won’t be overhead like they are in pictures, they will likely be on the northern horizon, so for maximum chances of seeing it, you should find a hill, a wide open field or a beach so you can see the northern horizon.

Try to adapt your eyes to the dark, this will help you see it better. Try not to look at bright things like phone screens as it might ruin your night vision, so adjust the brightness levels to the minimum.