Northern Lights forecast for UK tonight following rare red aurora warning

The aurora borealis (Image: PA)

Stargazers across the UK could be in for a spectacular treat tonight after an aurora "red alert" was issued, meaning there is a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights.

The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, produces one of nature’s most captivating visual displays, appearing as shimmering waves or curtains of colour, most commonly green, pink, and red. These striking lights occur when charged particles from the Sun collide with gases in the Earth’s upper atmosphere, creating vivid patterns that have fascinated observers for centuries.

Lancaster University has issued a red alert for auroral activity, its highest level, indicating “aurora will likely be visible by eye and camera from anywhere in the UK.” The university’s monitoring system is current