Residents across South Cheshire were treated to a breath-taking spectacle as the Northern Lights lit up the night sky last night (January 19th).
The aurora borealis became visible across large parts of the UK following a powerful solar flare, which sent a coronal mass ejection directly towards Earth.
Space weather experts at the Met Office issued an extreme alert ahead of the event, warning that conditions were favourable for unusually vivid displays.
With the Sun currently at its solar maximum, solar activity is stronger than normal, increasing the likelihood of the Northern Lights being seen much further south than usual.
In South Cheshire, a gap in the clouds allowed residents to witness shimmering waves of colour dancing across the winter sky.
The display featured striking shades of green, pink, red and purple, delighting skywatchers who took to gardens, streets and open countryside to catch a glimpse.
Residents in rural areas with less light pollution took to socials to post their photos and described stunning scenes.
Wistaston resident and photographer Jonathan White said: “It was absolutely stunning.
“I rarely expect to see the Northern Lights so clearly from Cheshire.
“The colours were incredible and seemed to move across the sky — it was one of the most amazing sights I’ve ever seen.”
For those hoping to spot future displays, experts advise using a smartphone camera if the colours are faint to the naked eye.
Switching to night mode or using a long-exposure setting can often reveal green and pink hues before they become clearly visible without equipment.
(Words and pics by Jonathan White)
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