News

Aurora Alert: Another chance to see the Northern Lights tonight

Published

2 years ago

May 11, 2024

THE UK was treated to a spectacular display of the Northern Lights on Friday night, courtesy of one of the most intense geomagnetic storms in recent years. With reports of visible auroras across the nation, many are now hopeful for a repeat performance tonight.

The celestial display was made possible by a G4 geomagnetic storm, the second highest warning level, which the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued for the weekend. This is the first such warning since 2005, highlighting the rarity and intensity of the current solar activity. According to The Guardian, the sun unleashed a series of strong solar flares starting Wednesday, leading to multiple plasma outbursts that have the potential to disrupt satellites and power grids.

These solar flares, originating from what are known as coronal mass ejections, were the catalysts for Friday’s stunning aurora borealis. As the charged particles from the sun struck the Earth’s magnetic field, they created the awe-inspiring colours that lit up the night sky.

Looking ahead to tonight, the Met Office’s space weather manager, Krista Hammond, indicated that the Northern Lights might still be visible, though likely on a smaller scale. “Aurora visibility may persist through Saturday night, but as it stands this is likely to be less widespread than on Friday night, with northern parts of the UK most likely to continue to have the best viewing potential,” Hammond stated.

Residents in the south of England, who were fortunate enough to witness the phenomenon last night, may find their chances diminished this evening. Historically, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and the northern regions of England are more favoured for viewing the Northern Lights during such geomagnetic events.

The clear skies on Friday played a crucial role in the visibility of the aurora, as reported by BBC News. Those eager to catch another glimpse of the Northern Lights are advised to seek spots away from city lights and hope for similar weather conditions tonight.

As the solar storm continues to influence our planet, the UK remains on alert for more breathtaking views of one of nature’s most extraordinary displays.

What you need to know about the Northern Lights

Unravelling the Mysteries of the Aurora

Every now and then, the skies above the polar regions are lit up with a dazzling display of colours, creating what is perhaps one of nature’s most splendid spectacles: the aurora. In the northern latitudes, it is known as the Aurora Borealis, or the Northern Lights, while in the southern latitudes, it is referred to as the Aurora Australis, or the Southern Lights. This celestial phenomenon has captivated humans for millennia, inspiring folklore and scientific inquiry alike. But what causes these breathtaking light shows?

A Cosmic Dance of Solar Wind and Earth’s Magnetosphere

The story of the aurora begins with the sun, the life-giving star at the centre of our solar system. The sun is constantly emitting a flow of charged particles known as the solar wind. This stream of particles is mostly composed of electrons and protons ejected from the sun’s atmosphere due to the intense heat at its core.

When these charged particles travel towards Earth, they encounter the Earth’s magnetosphere, an invisible magnetic field that surrounds our planet. This magnetic shield protects us from the solar wind. However, the magnetic field is weaker at the poles, and here, the charged particles can enter the Earth’s atmosphere.

As the particles collide with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, they transfer their energy to atoms and molecules of oxygen and nitrogen, exciting them into higher energy states. When these atoms and molecules return to their normal energy state, they release light — a process called radiative recombination. The colour of the light depends on the type of gas and the altitude of the interaction. Oxygen typically emits greenish-yellow or red light, while nitrogen can give off blue or purplish-red light.

The Influence of Geomagnetic Activity

The intensity and frequency of auroral displays are significantly affected by the geomagnetic activity around Earth. This activity is often heightened during solar maxima — periods of intense solar activity marked by an increased number of sunspots and solar flares. These events enhance the flow of solar wind, making the auroras more frequent and vivid.

Geomagnetic storms, another key influencer, can dramatically increase the brightness and extent of auroral activity. These storms occur when a large explosion on the sun, such as a coronal mass ejection, sends a huge cloud of magnetic plasma toward Earth, disrupting the magnetosphere and enhancing the flow of charged particles into the upper atmosphere.

Viewing the Aurora

Witnessing an aurora is a bucket-list experience for many. The best times to view the Northern Lights are typically during the winter months in the Arctic regions such as Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland, where the nights are long and dark. Similarly, the Southern Lights can be best observed from high southern latitudes in Antarctica, and more accessible locations like Tasmania and New Zealand, during the Southern Hemisphere’s winter.

The aurora is a reminder of our planet’s dynamic nature and its intimate connection with the cosmic forces of the solar system. As we continue to study this magnificent phenomenon, we not only learn more about our own planet but also gain insights into the workings of our solar system and beyond, illustrating once again the wonders of the universe we inhabit.

Crime

Emergency bags rolled out to support domestic abuse victims across Dyfed-Powys

Published

12 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Thirty packs provide immediate help for families fleeing dangerous situations

A NEW initiative aimed at supporting victims of domestic abuse has seen thirty emergency bags distributed for use across the Dyfed-Powys Police area.

The bags, which contain essential items including toiletries, non-perishable snacks and emergency supplies, are designed to offer immediate practical support to individuals and families forced to flee abusive situations, often with little or nothing.

The scheme forms part of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s wider commitment to improving outcomes for victims and is being delivered in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police and Dal i Godi, the commissioned Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) service.

Dal i Godi provides specialist support to victims at high risk of serious harm, including safety planning and advocacy through the criminal justice process.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said the initiative was already proving its value.

“This is an incredible initiative that I’m proud to support,” he said. “It provides meaningful help to those experiencing trauma and reflects our ongoing work to put victims first.

“Within just a few days of the bags being distributed to the Dal i Godi service, one was given to a victim fleeing a domestic abuse situation, along with a children’s pack to support their young family. That shows just how essential this support can be and how quickly it can make a difference.”

Detective Chief Inspector Llyr Williams, from the Dyfed-Powys Police Vulnerability Hub, said the emergency bags could provide a vital lifeline at critical moments.

“These emergency bags offer support at some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life,” he said.

“The contents provide immediate comfort, dignity and practical help for those leaving their homes in crisis. While simple, they represent an important first step towards safety and recovery.

“We are proud to be working with partners across the Dyfed-Powys area to ensure this support reaches people when they need it most.”

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone else, is encouraged to seek help. In an emergency, call 999.

Domestic abuse can also be reported online via Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support services available include Victim Support Dyfed-Powys, which offers free and confidential help to anyone affected by crime, whether or not it has been reported, and Dal i Godi, which provides specialist IDVA support for high-risk victims.

The Live Fear Free Helpline offers 24-hour support for those experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence across Wales.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please consider reporting it. If you are in danger or need support right away, please call 999.

You can report domestic abuse through the online crime reporting service here: Report domestic abuse | Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support is also available via the below support services:

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Free, independent support for anyone affected by crime in the Dyfed-Powys area, whether or not it has been reported to the police.

0300 123 2996

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Dal i Godi (IDVA Service)

Specialist support for victims of domestic abuse at high risk, offering safety planning, emotional support, and advocacy with agencies such as police and courts.

01267 221194

Dal i Godi

Live Fear Free Helpline

24/7 support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence.

0808 80 10 800 | Text 07860 077333

[email protected]

News

Welsh-language school praised for ‘happy, proud and friendly community’

Published

12 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Estyn highlights strong leadership, positive attitudes and a clear curriculum vision at Ysgol Bro Preseli

A WELSH-medium all-age school in Crymych has been praised by inspectors for fostering a “happy, proud and friendly community,” according to a recent Estyn report.

Inspectors said pupils at Ysgol Bro Preseli show pride in their local area, thrive both academically and socially, and are well prepared for the next stages of their learning.

The school currently has 932 pupils on roll, including 118 in the sixth form, and has operated as an all-age school since 2022.

Estyn found that most pupils demonstrate extremely positive attitudes to learning, treat staff with respect, and listen carefully to the contributions of their peers.

The report also notes that, in almost all cases, teachers show strong subject knowledge. Inspectors highlighted the close and supportive relationships staff build with pupils, alongside the creation of a safe learning environment where pupils are not afraid to make mistakes.

It states: “As a result of a clear strategic direction and detailed planning, teachers provide beneficial practical activities that allow pupils to develop purposeful oracy, reading and writing skills in language sessions and across the other areas of learning and experience.”

Inspectors also praised the school’s clear curriculum vision, rooted in its motto Gwreiddiau a Gorwelion (Roots and Horizons).

“Leaders and teachers provide a coherent curriculum and learning experiences that bridge the primary and secondary sectors effectively,” the report said. “Staff plan stimulating activities and experiences for pupils to learn and deepen their understanding within the areas of learning and experience. This contributes positively to the sense of belonging that permeates the whole curriculum of Ysgol Bro Preseli.”

Headteacher Rhonwen Morris said the report was a reflection of the collective effort across the school community.

“As a successful all-age Welsh-medium school, we are delighted that the report recognises our commitment to excellence and the unique identity that makes Ysgol Bro Preseli so special,” she said.

“Since becoming an all-age school in 2022, our cohesive leadership team and governing body have focused on building a strong foundation based on our values of Welsh ethos, kindness, community and responsibility.

“The report highlights the excellent strategic work of staff at all levels, which is a testament to the shared dedication and vision that drives our school forward.

“It is gratifying that the report reflects what we continuously aim to achieve day in and day out. This achievement belongs to our entire community — staff, pupils, parents and governors — and together we will continue to build on this success and provide the very best education for every pupil.”

Charity

Welsh opticians raise £1,600 for people experiencing homelessness

Published

13 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SPECSAVERS Pembroke Dock has helped raise £1,600 to support people experiencing homelessness this winter, with all funds going to The Wallich’s winter appeal.

Thirteen stores from North, South and West Wales donated £1 for every customer feedback form completed during November to help The Wallich, Wales’ largest homelessness and rough sleeping charity, continue its vital work.

Supporting more than 8,000 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness across the nation each year, The Wallich runs around 100 diverse projects across 20 local authorities to provide hope, support and solutions to end homelessness.

Funds raised by Specsavers will go directly to the Wallich’s Flexible Assistance Fund, which provides small but vital emergency grants. The grants support people at crucial turning points, helping cover essential costs such as phone credit, rent or food shops.

This initiative is a continuation of Specsavers’ wider homelessness programme, which sees over a hundred Specsavers stores and Home Visits services hold out-of-hours or pop-up clinics and invite people affected by forms of homelessness to use their services for free.

Specsavers’ North Wales regional relationship manager, Martin Lawrence, who helped organise the fundraiser, says: ‘We’re really proud to be supporting The Wallich’s winter appeal at a time when support is needed most.

‘Homelessness affects people in every community and as locally owned and run businesses, Specsavers stores are committed to raising awareness of the issue and supporting people through their toughest moments.

‘We’re excited to build on the success of this fundraiser and strengthen our partnership with The Wallich in the new year.’

Louisa Turner, head of fundraising at The Wallich, adds: ‘Winter can be an incredibly difficult time for people experiencing homelessness and this support from Specsavers will make a real difference.

‘The funds raised will help provide emergency grants at critical moments – whether that’s putting food on the table, helping someone stay connected with their loved ones or preventing someone from losing a safe place to live.

‘This kind of support creates vital turning points and helps people move towards a safer, more secure future.’

Specsavers works year-round with homelessness charities including Crisis, Vision Care and The Big Issue, to improve access to healthcare and advocate for policy change – ensuring people experiencing homelessness can receive free eye tests, glasses and hearing checks.

To find out more about Specsavers or to book an appointment at your local store, visit: https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores.