Solar Storm Hits ‘Severe’ G4 Level

The International Civil Aviation Organization reported severe impacts on high-frequency radio communications at high latitudes, potentially impacting long-haul flights.

Thursday, October 10, 2024 at 02:08 PM ET

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Aurorae dance over Ashokan Reservoir in upstate New York during the May 10/11, 2024, geomagnetic storm — the last time a G4-level watch was issued. [Credit: Chirag Upreti]

Key Takeaways:

A severe G4-level geomagnetic storm, caused by an X-class solar flare and coronal mass ejection, reached Earth on October 10.
This storm is anticipated to produce widespread and strong auroral displays, potentially visible as far south as Alabama.
However, it also carries risks, including disruptions to communications (GPS, radio), potential damage to satellites, and strain on power grids.
The increased solar activity aligns with the Sun nearing the peak of its 11-year cycle (Cycle 25), which has been notably dramatic.

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On October 8, an X-class solar flare gave rise to a coronal mass ejection (CME) that erupted from the surface of the Sun, racing toward Earth at 1.5 million mph (2.4 million km/h). It arrived at Earth at 11:15 a.m. EDT Thursday. At 12:57 p.m. EDT, the U.S. Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) reported that the geomagnetic storm triggered by the CME had reached G4 status — the second highest level.

SWPC expects strong auroral shows tonight. Aurorae are expected across the northern U.S., and could be seen as far south as Alabama.