Aurora UK: tonight's Severe Geomagnetic Storm 'will be strongest since 2005' - how to view Northern Lights

The rare solar storm will mean that the Northern Lights will be visible and give one of the best chances of the year to see the phenomena. They will be visible on Friday and Saturday for a large area of the country, with visibility likely to as far south as Liverpool.

The Met Office said in an update: “Where skies are clear and provided dark enough skies, sightings are expected to develop following the CME arrival across the northern half of the UK, with a chance that aurora may become visible to all parts of the UK and similar geomagnetic latitudes. Aurora activity may remain enhanced after this given the potential for further Earth directed CMEs in the coming days.”

There are also warnings that satellite and communications may be interrupted by the geomagnetic storm. BBC Weather said: “A spectacular aurora is likely Friday night and into the weekend. It's possible that satellite communications and power systems could be affected.”

ITV meteorologist and weatherman Chris Page added that the geomagnetic storm may be the strongest in more than a decade. He said: Although it won't be confirmed until after the event has reached Earth, there are signs tonight's Severe Geomagnetic Storm will be the strongest since 2005. This will mean it's likely all of the UK (cloud permitting) should be able to see the the Aurora tonight if you look north.”

Depending on the severity of the storm, the aurora is normally strongest right after sunset and just before sunrise. The clear weather will also give a boost to those hoping to catch a glimpse, with the ideal weather conditions in Scotland, northern England and Ireland likely to offer the best viewing opportunities.