The Northern Lights, also known as aurora borealis, have been spotted in the county, as residents in Hitchin stayed up late to catch the rare phenomenon on camera.

Severe geomagnetic activity sparks aurora events and a “red alert” has been issued for parts of the UK tonight. However, some eagle-eyed Hitchin photographers spotted the aurora last night too.

Northern Lights in HitchinNorthern Lights in Hitchin (Image: Michael Richmond)

Michael Richmond, Hitchin, was alerted to the light phenomenon using the ‘Aurora Alert’ app.

He said: “My wife Linda and I are on an aurora alert app, so were aware of the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights.

“We sat out in the back garden looking North and waiting to see the lovely hues through our phone cameras.”

The lights appeared for a “few minutes at around 11:30pm” allowing those in Hitchin to see the wonder usually exclusive to Lapland, Finland.

This is not the first time the magnificent geomagnetic activity has been spotted in the area. On 10 May 2024, Aurora was seen across Stevenage and North Herts.

Tonight, experts at AuroraWatchUK have warned users that the Northern Lights may appear between 9pm and 10pm, so keep your eyes peeled and cameras at the ready.

If you wish to stay up to date with the next sightings check out Aurora Watch UK at lancs.ac.uk.