UPDATE: In the event Cornwall DID get to enjoy the display - via cameras at least. See 52 stunning photos of the Northern Lights, as taken by Packet readers, here: 52 photos of Northern Lights in Cornwall last night - taken by you

For the chance of seeing them tonight (Saturday) read more here: Will the Northern Lights be visible on Saturday night after Friday's displays?

People in Cornwall may be left disappointed over a suggestion that ‘the whole of the UK’ could see the Northern Lights tonight.

There have been many reports on social media today (Friday) saying that a country-wide showing of the unique Northern Lights could take place tonight.

However, the Met Office has now confirmed that the phenomenon will largely only be seen in Scotland, Ireland and parts of northern England and Wales.

Although it acknowledged the aurora may be seen by people more in the south ‘with the right equipment’ it falls short of many reports’ circulation on social media.

Met Office spokesperson Stephen Dixon told PA (Press Association) that clear skies tonight will “offer a chance for the Northern Lights to be seen”.

“Although the shorter nights will limit the visibility window, there’s a good chance to see the aurora, particularly in Scotland, Ireland and parts of northern England and Wales.”

Mr Dixon said that the combination of clear skies and enhanced activity from the sun reaching Earth would improve the chances of seeing the display.

However, an element of hope was raised by ITV weatherman Chris Page when he wrote on X that there are signs tonight's 'Severe Geomagnetic Storm will be the strongest since 2005'.  

He said: "Although it won't be confirmed until after the event has reached Earth, there are signs tonight's Severe Geomagnetic Storm will be the strongest since 2005. This will mean it's likely all of the UK (cloud permitting) should be able to see the Aurora tonight if you look north."

In March people in the Duchy were lucky to see the rare sight as they were visible from the southern region of the UK.

Jo Shreeve and her daughter Ezmay were one of the lucky people who witnessed them in the flesh.

Jo told the BBC at the time that after receiving an alert on her phone at 8.30pm, she headed to Portreath Beach with her daughter.

She described the lights as a ‘spectacular show’ and said that the lights ‘were not as bright with the naked eye’.