Look up, Devon! Northern lights could be visible as geomagnetic storm builds

Sky watchers on Dartmoor could be in for a treat over the next few nights, with the northern lights potentially visible if conditions line up.

A Geomagnetic Storm Watch is now in effect, with experts warning the storm could reach G3 strength, which is strong enough to bring aurora displays across much of the UK. 

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The watch is valid from 9pm on 6 November to 11.59pm on 8 November, according to UK Weather Chase.

Several coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are currently heading toward Earth, along with a stream of solar wind from a coronal hole. 

UK Weather Chase says the main impact has not yet arrived but could lead to vivid aurora similar to the strong events seen in May and October, when the northern lights were visible across Dartmoor and beyond.

Experts report that one CME linked to an M7.4-class solar flare is expected to arrive around 7 November at 9am (UTC), though the timing could vary by up to 12 hours. If the arrival coincides with the coronal hole stream, the impact could be stronger than usual.

Between 6 and 8 November, geomagnetic activity is expected to range from unsettled to G1, with a good chance of G2 activity and the possibility of short periods reaching G3 strength, according to forecasts.

As Active Region 4274 moves closer to the centre of the Sun, any new eruptions are more likely to be directed toward Earth, which could increase the likelihood of stronger geomagnetic storms later in the week.

Local enthusiasts are already preparing for possible sightings. “We’ll definitely be keeping eyes on the skies over Dartmoor,” said one local watcher. “It’s always a gamble, but when it happens, it’s spectacular.”

UK Weather Chase recommends checking for updates as conditions can change quickly and nothing is guaranteed until the solar storm reaches Earth. 

For the best chance of seeing the aurora, choose a dark, clear location away from streetlights and look north.