Northern Lights expected in Scotland and parts of the UK

Significant solar flare means Northern Lights displays are expected this week in Scotland and parts of the UK –

Scientists* have reported that a large solar flare occurred earlier this week, releasing an explosion of electromagnetic matter called a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME). This is significant because CMEs are known to play a part in generating wonderful Northern Lights displays.

The solar storm is expected in the UK on Wednesday 14th March and Thursday 15th March – primarily in Northern Scotland but possibly in other parts of the UK – ahead of the spring equinox on 20th March, which marks the time when the sun crosses the equator, from south to north.

According to Alistair McLean, Managing Director of The Aurora Zone: “This time of year does coincide with the equinox which is often associated with higher levels of solar activity, and the Space Weather Prediction Centre is suggesting that we might see KP5 on Wednesday 14th March. The KP index is the scale used to measure geomagnetic storms and it ranges from 0 (very little activity) to 9 (huge!) and, as a basic rule of thumb, the larger the number, the further south the lights can be seen. This means that the Northern Lights may be visible from Northern Scotland but as we always say, it’s more likely that they will be seen within the Aurora Zone itself. For those going in search of the Aurora in Northern Scotland we suggest following elements of our unique Aurora hunting formula.”

If you wish to see the Northern Lights with The Aurora Zone, why not consider the following itinerary:

NEW: Wilderness Hotel Inari – Aurora Hunting Adventure is a seven-night itinerary priced from £1,895 pp (based on two sharing), including flights (London), transfers, full-board accommodation at the new Wilderness Hotel Inari and cold weather clothing. Whilst in Inari, experience a range of exciting guided activities: snowshoeing, Aurora workshop, a visit to the Sámi Siida Museum, two Aurora camps, husky safari, Aurora snowmobile safari, cross-country skiing, Aurora hunt and a visit to a reindeer farm. Departures until 1 April 2018.

To book, or to speak to an expert, please call The Aurora Zone on 01670 785012 (www.theaurorazone.com).

*Data provided by NASA