There is a possibility that Earth could be impacted by a solar storm today. Recent signs point to radio disruptions that were experienced after a solar storm struck Earth yesterday. A subsequent storm is anticipated to bring further disturbances, although it is predicted to pass by Earth tangentially, rather than making a direct hit.
Multiple Solar Disturbances Predicted
Space weather expert Dr. Tamitha Skov has reported that two solar storms were ejected from the Sun near Region 3555 on January 20. The initial storm made a direct impact on January 22, while the second is expected to sideswipe Earth. Additionally, an unstable solar filament could trigger further solar storms directed towards Earth.
Consequences of Solar Activity
If the second solar storm reaches Earth today, it may lead to radio blackouts affecting frequencies between 3 to 30 MHz. Past solar storms have also caused disruptions to GPS and other communication signals. Moreover, solar storms can induce spectacular natural light displays known as auroras, particularly in the northern regions, as the solar energy interacts with Earth’s atmosphere.
The frequency of solar flares is expected to increase as our Sun approaches its solar maximum, a period of heightened activity with more sunspots and increased solar emissions. This period is characterized by a more turbulent solar surface, which can lead to a higher number of solar flares and other energetic releases.
The recent solar events have the potential to produce auroras visible in several U.S. states, including South Dakota, Iowa, Wisconsin, New York, Michigan, New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, and Wyoming. These natural phenomena are a direct result of the interplay between solar emissions and Earth’s atmospheric components.
