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Rare Northern Lights Dazzle UK Skies Amid Severe Solar Storm
12 Nov
Summary
- Geomagnetic storm triggered by Sun's coronal mass ejection
- Chance of strong G3 or severe G4 storm conditions
- Stunning green and red hues visible across northern UK
On November 12, 2025, skygazers across the UK are being treated to a rare celestial display as a severe geomagnetic storm hits the region. The storm was triggered by a coronal mass ejection (CME) from the Sun, which is expected to arrive this evening.
According to forecasters, there is a chance of a strong G3 or even severe G4 geomagnetic storm, which could result in a breathtaking light show of the Northern Lights. Photographs taken the previous night show skies over Whitley Bay, Northamptonshire, and Sunderland lit up in vibrant green and red hues.
While cloud cover may inhibit ideal viewing conditions in some areas, there is still a chance to spot the mesmerizing aurora borealis during clear intervals, particularly across northern parts of the UK. Solar physicist Dr. Stephanie Yardley has advised skywatchers to look north, or even overhead, for the best chance of seeing the display.
The solar flare that erupted from the Sun on early Tuesday morning was identified as the largest in 2025 so far, coming from a highly active sunspot. Geomagnetic storms of this severity, while rare, are not dangerous for humans on Earth, but they can disrupt satellites, power grids, and some electronic devices.
