The Aurora Borealis stunned the nation several times in 2024, and a dazzling light display that was visible from north to south Wales kicked off the new year too. Increasing numbers of displays have been spotted over the past year, with more of the country able to take in the spectacular sights.
They were seen on New Year’s Day in the Vale of Clwyd in the north as well at Loughor near Swansea and at the Pontsticill Reservoir near Merthyr. Get the latest Welsh headlines delivered free to your email inbox.
Krista Hammond, a manager at the Met Office Space Weather Operations Centre (MOSWOC), has explained why there has been an increase in sightings. She said: “Activity on the sun, and in particular the number of visible sunspots, varies over roughly an 11-year period, known as the solar cycle.”
The last solar minimum, which is when the Sun had the lowest frequency of visible sunspots in the solar cycle, occurred in December 2019. This means that the sun’s activity is currently increasing, with the next solar maximum expected around 2025.
As a result, more of the Sun’s electrically charged particles are travelling towards the Earth and getting caught in its magnetic field, thus producing more of the aurora effect.
Krista added: “Over the coming years, as we continue towards the solar maximum, we can expect to see an increase in the frequency of space weather events, with more chances to see the Aurora Borealis over the UK.” The current peak is expected to last until mid-2025, according to the Royal Astronomical Society.
It comes as Wales experiences a cold snap with clearer skies. Thursday will be fine and dry for most but it will feel much colder, and the Met Office says this trend will continue into Friday with the threat of overnight ice extending south as far as the South West of England. Join our WhatsApp news community here for the latest breaking news. You will receive updates from us daily.
If you have any pictures you would like to share, email cathy.owen@mediawales.co.uk.