West Dunbartonshire residents are in for a treat this week as the Northern Lights are set to descend on the region once again.

This comes as the Northern Lights were visible across much of the country at the end of March after a major solar storm in outer space.

The Met Office says onlookers could be treated to the rare spectacle this week as solar winds hit Earth's charged atmosphere.

With the Northern Lights likely to hit Scotland, here is everything you need to know.

What causes the Northern Lights as they come to West Dunbartonshire?

The Northern Lights phenomenon is caused when there is heightened solar activity by the sun. This usually comes in the form of solar winds.

When these winds collide with the Earth's charged atmosphere, the aurora effect is produced, creating spectacular dancing lights in our night skies.

This occurred last month when a powerful solar storm took place following solar winds.

When are the Northern Lights coming to Scotland this week?

The Met Office Space Weather Operations Centre said the Northern Lights would come to Scotland tonight (April 20) and on Friday, April 21.

The Met Office said: "There is a growing chance of seeing the northern lights over the coming few nights, especially Thursday night.

"Aurora may be visible where skies remain clear across Scotland, as well as potentially as far south as Northern Ireland, north Wales, northern and central England." 

Dumbarton and Vale of Leven Reporter: (Canva) The Northern Lights are best viewed from areas with low light pollution(Canva) The Northern Lights are best viewed from areas with low light pollution (Image: Canva)

Tips for seeing the Northern Lights near Dumbarton as Met Office issues guidance

The Met Office says the Northern Lights are best viewed in areas of low light pollution such as places away from major towns and human activity.

Here are some tips from the Met Office for seeing the Northern Lights as they come to Dumbarton and the surrounding area:

  • You need a clear night with no cloud cover
  • Find a dark location with no light pollution
  • Look toward the northern horizon
  • Be cautious that geomagnetic activity can cause disturbances to satellite navigation (GNSS/GPS etc)

What is the Met Office Weather forecast for Dumbarton tonight?

The Met Office predicts that Dumbarton will have clear skies throughout Thursday and Friday with a low chance of rain.

The temperatures could reach highs of 14C but this could drop below 8C by nightfall.

Winds will reach speeds of 27 mph with the Met Office stating that coastal areas could be chilly.

The Northern Lights are expected to peak in West Dunbartonshire on Thursday, April 20 and Friday, April 21.