A cloud of charged particles blasted from the Sun on Monday is expected to reach Earth on Thursday, potentially triggering a minor geomagnetic storm and making the northern lights visible at high latitudes, according to forecasters.
The event began with an eruption from an active region on the Sun's surface, designated AR4528. The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) models suggest that part of the ejected material is travelling towards our planet and could arrive around Thursday. The astronomy outlet EarthSky, co-authored by a NASA solar scientist, reported that the effects might build gradually over the day, as fast solar wind from a coronal hole is adding to the CME's push.
What happens when a solar eruption reaches Earth?
When this material arrives, it can disturb Earth's magnetic field, causing what scientists call a geomagnetic storm. Depending on its strength, such a storm can affect satellites, navigation, and communications, while more severe events can also disrupt power grids. The charged particles interact with gases in the upper atmosphere, producing auroras—the northern and southern lights.
For now, the expected storm is weak. NOAA is forecasting G1 conditions, the lowest level on its five-point geomagnetic storm scale. At G1, the agency says weak fluctuations in power grids are possible, and satellites may experience minor effects. Auroras can occur, but they are generally expected at high latitudes.
That means most people are unlikely to notice any technological disruption from this event, and the current forecast does not point to an unusually widespread display of northern lights across Europe. The impact will depend on how the incoming solar material's magnetic field interacts with Earth's own magnetic field, EarthSky said.
For Europeans, the main interest will be the possibility of seeing the aurora from northern Scandinavia, Iceland, or Scotland. Skywatchers in these regions should look towards the north after dark, weather permitting. The storm is not expected to cause the kind of widespread power or communication issues that have been seen in more severe events, such as the 2003 Halloween storms that disrupted satellites and caused blackouts in Sweden.
While this particular event is minor, it serves as a reminder of the Sun's activity as it approaches the peak of its 11-year cycle. Scientists are monitoring solar activity closely, and more significant storms could occur in the coming months. For now, the main advice is to enjoy the possible auroras if you are in the right place.
