THE Northern Lights made a typically striking return to North Wales last week, as a family from Rhyl captured them illuminating the night sky.

Also known as the Aurora Borealis, the astronomical phenomena was visible to the naked eye on Friday evening (December 1)

Steven Davies took the attached pictures after heading to Splash Point in Rhyl to take them at about 5.30pm on Friday with his partner and daughters.

Rhyl Journal: The Northern Lights in RhylThe Northern Lights in Rhyl (Image: Steven Davies)

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The Northern Lights are caused when atoms in the Earth's upper atmosphere combine with charged particles from the sun, creating the vibrant display.

They are more frequently seen at higher latitudes and places like Alaska, Canada, and Antarctica, which are closer to the Earth’s poles.

Rhyl Journal: The Northern Lights in RhylThe Northern Lights in Rhyl (Image: Steven Davies)

The Met Office issues the following tips to help you see the Northern Lights:

  • You need a clear night with no cloud cover.
  • Find a dark location with no light pollution.
  • Look towards the northern horizon.