The sun occasionally releases massive particle eruptions, sometimes causing auroras or disrupting satellites and power grids on Earth. A severe space weather watch was issued after a large solar flare and coronal mass ejection were observed from a sunspot. This event, centered on the sun, could impact Earth, potentially causing disruptions and visible auroras closer to the Equator. This is only the second such watch in 19 years, with the first in May allowing preparations that mitigated major outages.
Read more at: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/09/science/solar-storm-sun-aurora.html
The sun unleashed an X-class solar flare, causing a temporary radio blackout over parts of the U.S. and releasing a coronal mass ejection (CME) expected to hit Earth, potentially creating auroras. The flare, from sunspot AR3842, had a magnitude of X7.1, the second most powerful of Solar Cycle 25. Radiation bypassed Earth’s magnetosphere, affecting the Pacific Ocean region. The CME is predicted to collide with Earth on Saturday, Oct. 5.
Read more at: https://www.livescience.com/space/the-sun/monster-x-class-flare-launches-massive-solar-storm-towards-earth-and-could-trigger-auroras-this-weekend
The NOAA Space Prediction Center forecasts possible aurora sightings for Michiganders over the next three nights, extending as far south as the upper Midwest. A minor (G1) to moderate (G2) geomagnetic storm is expected, with higher chances on Tuesday and Thursday nights. Auroras, caused by solar eruptions, may be visible along the northern horizon, especially in northern Michigan. The Kp value is forecasted to range from 5 to 6, indicating visibility in the northern U.S. The best viewing times are at night, away from city lights, typically around 10 p.m.
Read more at: https://www.wzzm13.com/article/weather/northern-light-geomagnetic-storm-possible-tonight-wednesday-night-and-thursday-night/69-b3de8d6b-4a52-4be3-9b2a-3c65ba57d845
Scientists warn that auroras caused by direct hits to Earth’s magnetic field from solar storms could damage critical infrastructure, including power grids. These “head-on” aurora displays may lead to electric shocks and widespread chaos.
Read more at: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jamiecartereurope/2024/07/10/northern-lights-alert-beware-head-on-aurora-displays-say-scientists/