Find Your Local Forecast
Search a UK city for detailed aurora borealis visibility prediction.
Aurora Borealis Forecast UK Tonight
Live aurora borealis visibility prediction for 54 UK locations. Real-time Kp index, cloud cover, and optimal viewing times updated every few minutes.
Check Aurora Borealis Visibility Near You
Enter your city or use location to see tonight's aurora borealis forecast.
Aurora Borealis Viewing Checklist
- Check Kp index reaches your location's threshold (see table below).
- Cloud cover below 30% significantly improves visibility.
- Wait for astronomical darkness (usually after 10 PM).
- Find a dark location with clear northern horizon.
Aurora Borealis Visibility by UK Region
Kp index threshold needed to see aurora borealis at each location.
| Region | Kp Needed | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Shetland Islands | Kp Kp 4++ | 20-30 nights/year |
| Orkney Islands | Kp Kp 4++ | 15-25 nights/year |
| Scottish Highlands | Kp Kp 5++ | 10-20 nights/year |
| Central Scotland | Kp Kp 5++ | 5-15 nights/year |
| Northern Ireland | Kp Kp 5++ | 5-10 nights/year |
| Northern England | Kp Kp 5++ | 3-8 nights/year |
| Central England | Kp Kp 6++ | 1-3 nights/year |
| Southern England | Kp Kp 7++ | Rare events only |
How Our Aurora Borealis Forecast Works
We combine multiple data sources for accurate visibility prediction.
Kp Index
Real-time geomagnetic activity from NOAA. Higher Kp means stronger aurora borealis visible further south.
Cloud Cover
Met Office weather data showing cloud percentage. Clear skies essential for aurora borealis viewing.
Moon Phase
Moonlight affects visibility. New moon periods offer darkest skies for aurora borealis photography.
Darkness Window
Astronomical twilight times for your location. Aurora borealis visible only in full darkness.
Aurora Borealis Forecast FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What KP do I need?
Your required KP depends on magnetic latitude. Northern locations need lower KP values. Check your city page for the exact threshold calculated from your MLAT.
When is the best time?
Use the "best hour tonight" feature on each city page. It combines KP forecast, cloud cover, and darkness window to find optimal viewing time.
Can I see aurora in summer?
Aurora needs darkness to be visible. Summer's long daylight and bright moonlight significantly reduce aurora visibility, even during strong activity.
How accurate are aurora predictions?
AuroraMe combines 4 reality factors: NOAA OVATION space weather, cloud coverage, moon phase, and darkness windows. Location-specific KP thresholds are calibrated from 3+ years of historical data (8,768+ measurements).
What's included in Aurora History?
Multi-year statistical analysis with best months algorithm, calendar heatmap (12 months × 4 weeks), yesterday's observation windows, and location-calibrated frequency (Lerwick ~50 nights/year vs London ~5 nights/year).
How do quiet hours work?
Quiet hours prevent notifications during sleep (default 11 PM - 7 AM, customizable per location). Progressive urgency: strong aurora activity overrides quiet hours. 30-minute cooldown between alerts.
Get Aurora Borealis Alerts
Free push notifications when aurora borealis is visible at your location.