Edinburgh residents have the chance to witness the Northern Lights tomorrow, as a solar storm approaches the city. The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora, are usually only visible in the poles or surrounding areas, making this event a rare treat for those in Edinburgh. Some of the best vantage points in the city include Calton Hill, Blackford Hill, and Arthur’s Seat.
According to the Met Office, aurora sightings are likely across Scotland and Northern Ireland, with a slight chance of sightings in parts of northern England, the Midlands, or the south of England where the skies are clear. The best conditions to view the lights are when the sky is dark and clear of any clouds, as cloud cover can block the view of the light.
While the lights are most likely to be viewed from the early hours of Friday in Scotland and northern England, unsettled weather conditions across the country could potentially spoil the chance of catching a rare glimpse. Thursday’s forecast predicts rain in many areas, with showers becoming more frequent across northwest Scotland through the evening and into the early hours.
For those lucky enough to be under clear skies, it is advised to find areas with the least amount of light pollution to avoid the lights being spoiled or outshone. The Northern Lights, caused by activity on the surface of the sun as solar storms release huge clouds of electrically charged particles, have fascinated and amazed human beings for millennia. The earth’s magnetic field captures some of these particles, making the lights more likely to be seen the closer you are to the poles.
The Northern Lights, or aurora, are a breathtaking natural phenomenon that has captivated people throughout history. The vibrant colors dancing across the night sky are a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the world we live in. So, if you’re in Edinburgh tomorrow night, be sure to look up and keep an eye out for this spectacular display of nature’s magic.
