Solar Flare Triggers Severe Geomagnetic Storm Watch
Dramatic Blast from the Sun Sets Off First G4 Watch Since 2005
SWPC Issues Warning as Energetic Solar Storm Impacts Earth
A powerful solar flare has triggered a severe geomagnetic storm watch for the first time in nearly 20 years, according to the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC). The flare, which erupted from sunspot region 3664 on Thursday, May 9, 2024, is the most complex sunspot region observed during the current Solar Cycle.
The SWPC has issued a G4 watch, the highest level of alert, as the energetic onslaught from the flare is expected to continue through the weekend. The storm has already caused widespread disruption to communications and power grids in some areas.
Geomagnetic storms are caused by the interaction of charged particles from the sun with Earth's magnetic field. They can disrupt power grids, communications, and GPS navigation systems. The G4 storm is expected to have a significant impact on these systems, potentially causing widespread outages and disruptions.
The last time a G4 geomagnetic storm occurred was in 2005. That storm caused widespread blackouts and disruptions to communication systems across the globe. The current storm is expected to be less severe, but it could still cause significant disruption to infrastructure and services.
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