Residents across the Midlands were gifted a breathtaking celestial display on Monday night, as the Northern Lights painted the sky in vibrant hues. The rare sighting, part of one of the most potent solar storms in recent years, was witnessed remarkably far south, with reports from Devon and Cornwall.
What Caused the Spectacular Display?
The stunning phenomenon, scientifically known as the Aurora Borealis, occurs when the Sun enters a highly active phase. During this period, eruptions called Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) blast solar particles towards Earth. When these particles collide with our planet's atmosphere, they create the mesmerising curtains of light that dance across the night sky.
While Scotland and northern England occasionally enjoy these views, it is exceptionally uncommon for southern regions of the UK to experience the aurora. The event on Monday, January 19, 2026, was therefore a significant and memorable occurrence for many.
Tonight's Forecast: A Second Chance to See the Lights?
The pressing question for skygazers now is whether the show will repeat on Tuesday evening. The Met Office provided an update on the morning of Tuesday, January 20.
They confirmed that the Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) which left the Sun on January 18 arrived at Earth on the evening of January 19. This triggered a G4/Severe geomagnetic storm, leading to the widespread auroral activity seen across the UK and even as far south as northern Italy.
Where to Look Tonight
According to the forecast, auroral activity is expected to decline by the evening of Tuesday, January 20. However, the Met Office states that the Northern Lights "may still be visible" under the right conditions.
The best chances tonight are for parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland, along with other locations at similar latitudes. Clear, dark skies away from light pollution remain the essential ingredient for any potential sighting.
For those in the Midlands and further south, while the intense display of Monday night is unlikely to be matched, keeping an eye on the northern horizon on a clear night could still yield a glimpse of this extraordinary natural wonder.
