Northern Lights could be visible across parts of Northern Ireland tonight

It's down a geomagnetic storm hitting Earth this week

Author: Emma DicksonPublished 12th Oct 2021

On Sunday the Weather Prediction Center (SWPC), part of the United States’ National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), issued a geomagnetic storm warning for Monday and Tuesday.

A solar flare, or in more technical terms a coronal mass ejection (CME), is heading towards Earth and bringing the Aurora to lower altitudes, making the Northern Lights potentially more visible.

The Met Office says that while it's not for definite, the best chances of seeing the colourful spectacle are in Scotland, northern parts of England and Northern Ireland.

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora, regularly occur at the top of the northern hemisphere.

According to AuroraWatch UK, the best time to spot aurora borealis tonight is between 9pm and 11pm.

All of this extra activity in the skies, is brought on by solar winds. So as well as showcasing a spectacular star/light display in the sky, we might have some technical satellite issues over the next few days.

That could affect global communications and our internet. Just last week, Facebook, Whatsapp and Instagram went down, plunging thousands of people worldwide into a 'digital detox' for the night.

Best to put the phones away, and relax outside watching the stars!

For endless star-gazing opportunities check out some of NI's most popular camp sites 👇

Gorse Hill Farm, Bryansford

Just an hour outside Belfast, you can't beat the picturesque landscape from the cosy pods at Gorse Hill Farm. Enjoy walks in the mountains and views of the Shimna River Valley.

Highview Holiday Park, Portrush

Nestled in the heart of the Causeway Coast and 15 mins, this family-friendly park offers glamping cabins, a play park and tuck shop.

Castle Ward, Strangford

With pitches for tents, caravans, motorhomes and campervans, there's something for everyone at Castle Ward. Plus, if you don't have your own tent, the campsite also has a handful of wooden camping pods for hire.

Delamont Country Park, Killyleagh

Located near the stunning Strangford Lough and surrounded by the beauty of a country park, you'll never want to leave this hidden gem!

Let’s Go Hydro, Carryduff

Let's go Hydro offers a range of glamping options perfect for individuals, families and large groups. Your options are endless, from safari tents to cabins on the water!

Meelmore Lodge, Bryansford

Meelmore Lodge is an ideal place to stay for anyone visiting or trekking through the Mourne Mountains. They have a spacious campsite with stunning views and a bistro which is open daily to the public.

Kilbroney Caravan Park, Co.Down

Overlooking Carlingford Lough these 97 acres of beautiful parkland nestles within the shadow of Slieve Martin and the Mountains of Mourne.

Maddybenny Farm Campsite

Maddybenny Farm Campsite is a small and friendly family and dog friendly campsite. This spot is ideal for little one, with beaches, golf courses, scenic walks and numerous outdoor activities nearby.

Crom Campsite, Fermanagh

This large campsite is spread over two areas, Culliagh's and Bell Hill. This spacious family friendly plot offers tent pitches as well as collection of luxurious glamping pods. With lots of facilities on site including a shower and toilet block, outdoor tap for washing dishes and even a communal campfire.

Carrowmena, Limavady

Enjoy views of Binevenagh or trips to Benone Beach and Magilligan Point from Carrowmena's set of attractive bell tents. The site features tempting water sports and outdoor activities with trained instructors.

Sycamore Pods, Larne

Just a mile from Ballgally beach, Sycamore Pods offers glamping at its best. With two bespoke pods, guests can enjoy a weekend spent in a private hot tub, cosy up by the campfire and sleeping in ultimate luxury.

Murlough Cottage Caravan Park, Newcastle

The iconic views of the sea and towering Mourne Mountains are worth the trip to Murlough alone. With world-class golf, fishing, sailing and horse riding available you'll never get bored.

Riverside Farm, Enniskillen

A family run caravan park situated in the centre of Fermanagh Lakelands, ideal for visiting Marble Arch Caves, Florence Court House or Castle Coole. The site has a small marina with a slipway suitable for kayakers or stand-up paddle boarding.

Carrickreagh Bay, Lower Lough Erne

Carrickreagh Bay Luxury Glamping Pods look out over the tranquil waters of Lough Erne, offering a lovely base for families and couples.

Finn Lough Bubble Domes, Fermanagh

Sleep under the stars, turn off your mobile and go off the grid for a little adventure or a lot of relaxation. A once in a lifetime experience, sleeping in a luxurious four poster bed under a canopy of leaves in the heart of the stunning Fermanagh Lakelands.

Read more:

15 magical sunrise/sunset spots across Northern Ireland

NI pumpkin patches perfect for a family day out

11 of the most haunted places in Northern Ireland

How to listen to Downtown Radio:

Tune into Northern Ireland's Home of Great Music, Downtown Radio on FM, AM, DAB Digital Radio, online, on our Rayo app and by asking your smart speaker to 'Play Downtown Radio'. Gary & Glen kick things off every weekday morning and Neal McClelland brings you home on Downtown Drive.