Weather expert says there is 'chance' that Northern Lights will be visible over Ireland tonight

An Irish weather expert has said there is a chance that the Northern Lights will be visible over Ireland tonight after a dry and bright day for many.

Alan O’Reilly of Carlow Weather tweeted on Tuesday: “A cool clear night for many areas with a risk of light frost.

“Cloud will increase tomorrow with a chance of some showers in Southern areas tomorrow evening but many areas staying dry and sunny spell. Also FYI a small chance of seeing Northern lights tonight”.

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Those who are looking to catch a glimpse of the spectacular phenomenon, known as aurora borealis, could be in luck.

Statistically, midnight and the hours around midnight from 10:00 to 2:00 are the best time of day to see the Northern Lights and when most Aurora sightings are reported.

The best chance you have of seeing the green hue in the sky is by avoiding light pollution from towns and cities.

Looking to the north will also give you the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights. That is why your best chance of a sighting is finding somewhere along the coast with clear views north.

According to LetsgoIreland, “Generally speaking, when all of the necessary conditions are in place, the northern headlands of County Donegal and coastal areas of County Sligo offer some of the best vantage points for viewing the northern lights in Ireland.

“If the Northern Lights are very strong, many areas particularly along the west coast all along the Wild Atlantic Way, which receives less light pollution, might be in with the chance of seeing the Northern Lights”.

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