Northern Lights 'likely' to be seen for third night in a row as yellow alert issued

The aurora borealis, or northern lights, puts on a spectacular display over the Weaver Hills, Staffordshire. -Credit:Rod Kirkpatrick/RKP Photography
The aurora borealis, or northern lights, puts on a spectacular display over the Weaver Hills, Staffordshire. -Credit:Rod Kirkpatrick/RKP Photography


Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire and the rest of the UK could be in for a third night of Northern Lights spectacle, according to weather experts. A further geomagnetic storm is 'likely', which could result in the skies being lit up with ethereal green and pink hues once again.

On Friday night (May 10), North Staffordshire residents were treated to an incredible view of the natural light show, with some lucky enough to witness it again on Saturday evening (May 11). Channel 4 weather presenter Liam Dutton suggested that there could be "another UK-wide showing of the aurora borealis" this evening (Sunday, May 12).

He posted on X: "**LATEST NOAA SPACE PREDICTION** Further coronal mass ejections (CMEs) expected to arrive on Sunday. This means another strong or extreme geomagnetic storm is likely. Therefore, there may be another UK-wide showing of the aurora borealis on Sunday night - cloud permitting."

Dutton later added: "Geomagnetic activity will increase again today, however, as with last night, peak activity may not coincide with darkness. There'll also be much more cloud around tonight, with clear spells limited. So, the chances of spotting the will be reduced somewhat."

A yellow alert has been issued by AuroraWatch UK, a group of scientists, predicting that the phenomenon could be visible to the naked eye in certain areas, and more widely with the use of camera equipment.

Many people in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire have captured the Northern Lights from their own streets and gardens. But those who have ventured into areas where there has been less light pollution have been treated to spectacular displays.

Those hoping to catch a glimpse tonight could head to the Peak District Park east of Leek for the best chance of seeing them. But remember, the skies need to be clear.

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