The storm follows an x-class solar flare and coronal mass ejection which occurred on the Suns surface on Tuesday.
Heres what you oughta know about the upcoming storm.
What is a geomagnetic storm?
An X9.0 solar flare seen by NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory Thursday morning.Image: NASA/SDO
A geomagnetic storm is a space weather phenomenon resulting from explosions on the Suns surface.
There are two different solar events that come into play here: solar flares and coronal mass ejections.
Theflare on Tuesdayhad a rating of X7.1.
Maps showing estimated areas where auroras could be seen on Thursday and Friday. These predictions are subject to change. Image: NOAA
This morning, NASAs Solar Dynamics Observatoryobservedan X9.0 solar flare which peaked at 8:18 a.m. ## Is there reason for alarm?
In the alert, NOAA warned of limited, minor effects to some technological infrastructure.
So again, if you rely on radio communication you will likely see some disruptions.
Its not going to knock out your power.
Where and when will the geomagnetic storm cause auroras?
Auroras are forecast across most of Alaska and Canada, according to the Space Weather Prediction Centersexperimental Aurora Dashboard.
Auroras may also be visible in northern Russia and Antarctica.
But if youre farther south than that, dont despair.
Will there be more geomagnetic storms soon?
The Sun is generally a hospitable host, but it has its temper tantrums.
Even since I began writing this article, theSun had anothereven more intensesolar flare.
That X9.0 flare was stronger than the X7.1 event on Tuesday.
Suffice to stay, the Sun is a predictable starbut still has tricks up its celestial sleeve.
When Will There Be a New Solar Superstorm?
Heres hoping we all catch a glimpse of some auroras!
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