BRITS could be treated to a dazzling light display tonight when a huge solar flare helps illuminate the sky.

The Northern Lights could be visible across the UK – making for a spectacular Halloween treat.

Can I see the Northern Lights tonight?

Depending on whereabouts you live in the UK, you could well get a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis tonight.

The Met Office said increased geomagnetic activity will improve visibility in the north, but even people as far south as Norfolk also stand a chance.

Large areas of colour, including green, pink, red, yellow, blue and purple, will light up the sky.

The phenomenon is caused by electrically charged particles from the sun smashing into gaseous particles in Earth's atmosphere.

This is often accompanied by a coronal mass ejection – otherwise known as a huge expulsion of plasma from the sun's outer layer.

Where can I watch the Aurora Borealis in the UK?

Scotland tends to be the best place to watch the lights from as it is furthest north.

However, northern England, north Wales and Northern Ireland also often get a pretty good show.

And, if under the right conditions, the lights can be seen throughout the UK.

Tonight, the Met Office estimates those living in the far north of Scotland are pretty much guaranteed to sighting, with the probability at 100 per cent.

Further south it drops to around 70 per cent, dipping as low as about 30 per cent towards northern England.

What is the best way to see the Northern Lights?

Experts say the best way to get a good look at the lights is in complete darkness, away from any light pollution.

It also helps if the sky is clear of any clouds, and you are in a remote area.

The lights generally extend from 50 miles to as high as 400 miles above the Earth's surface.

North-facing coasts offer some of the best views, according to forecasters, but anywhere looking northward will offer you the best opportunity.

The Northern Lights are most active during the Equinox and Solstice in March/April and September/October, according to the Met Office.

Heading out at between 7pm and 2am is recommended, but any time in the late evening should give you a glimpse of the glow.

A Met Office map shows the aurora should come into sight over the UK at about 6pm, with best visibility between 9pm and 1am.

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