What's happened
Multiple solar coronal mass ejections (CMEs) have caused geomagnetic storms across the US, UK, and parts of Canada, leading to spectacular aurora displays. The storms have disrupted satellite and communication systems and are expected to continue into Thursday, with visibility affected by weather conditions.
What's behind the headline?
The recent solar storms exemplify the increasing intensity of solar activity during the current solar cycle. The occurrence of overlapping CMEs and 'cannibal' storms indicates a heightened risk for infrastructure disruptions, including satellite operations and power grids. While the auroras offer a rare visual spectacle, the storms' potential to impair critical technology underscores the need for preparedness. Governments and agencies like NOAA and the UK Met Office are actively monitoring these events, but the unpredictability of solar eruptions means that impacts could escalate. The visibility of auroras across broad regions, including the US and UK, is a direct consequence of these powerful CMEs, which are likely to persist into the coming days, with weather conditions playing a significant role in observation opportunities.
What the papers say
The New York Times reports that recent solar activity has caused significant geomagnetic storms, with overlapping CMEs leading to disruptions in satellite and communication systems. The Independent highlights the UK’s upgraded forecast, noting the impact on satellite navigation and the potential for the biggest 'cannibal' storm in two decades. Sky News emphasizes the severity of the ongoing storm, which has already caused the largest geoelectric field since records began. Meanwhile, the NY Post and other sources detail the widespread aurora sightings across North America, with projections of continued visibility and potential disruptions. The articles collectively underscore the increasing intensity of solar storms, their technological impacts, and the spectacular natural displays they produce.
How we got here
Solar activity peaks on an 11-year cycle, with recent heightened activity leading to multiple CMEs. These eruptions send charged particles toward Earth, disturbing its magnetic field and causing auroras. The current storms follow a peak last year, with ongoing solar emissions fueling widespread geomagnetic disturbances.
Go deeper
Common question
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What Causes the Aurora and Solar Storms Now?
Recent solar activity has sparked a stunning display of auroras across parts of the US and Britain, caused by a powerful G4 geomagnetic storm. But what exactly is a geomagnetic storm, and why are we seeing these spectacular lights now? In this page, you'll find answers to common questions about solar storms, auroras, and their potential impacts. Discover what’s behind this cosmic show and whether it’s a rare event or happening more often.
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What Causes Intense Solar Storms and Auroras?
Recent solar activity has led to spectacular aurora displays and disruptions in satellite and communication systems. But what exactly causes these intense solar storms? In this guide, we'll explore the science behind solar storms, how they create stunning auroras, and what impacts they have on our technology and environment. Keep reading to find out why these phenomena happen now and what they mean for us.
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How Do Solar Storms Affect Communication and Satellites?
Recent intense solar storms have caused spectacular aurora displays and disrupted satellite and communication systems across the UK and North America. These space weather events, driven by coronal mass ejections from the sun, can have significant impacts on our technology infrastructure. Curious about how these solar storms affect our daily lives? Below, we answer common questions about satellite disruptions, communication risks, and what to expect during these solar events.
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When Will the Solar Storms End and What’s Next?
Recent intense solar storms have caused spectacular aurora displays and disrupted satellite and communication systems across the UK and North America. These geomagnetic disturbances are driven by coronal mass ejections from the sun, and many are wondering how long they will last and what the future holds. In this guide, we answer common questions about the duration of these storms, upcoming solar activity, safety tips, and when we might see the northern lights again.
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Are Solar Storms Dangerous to Your Everyday Tech?
Recent intense solar storms have caused spectacular auroras and disrupted satellite and communication systems. But what do these space weather events mean for your daily devices? Are your smartphones, power grids, or GPS systems at risk? Below, we answer common questions about the risks of solar storms and how they might affect your tech and infrastructure.
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Why Are Auroras Visible in the UK and North America Now?
Recent intense solar storms have caused spectacular aurora borealis displays across the UK and North America. But why are these northern lights suddenly so visible in these regions? In this page, we'll explore what makes auroras appear in these areas, whether they're becoming more common, and the best conditions and spots to see them. If you're wondering why you're seeing the northern lights now, read on for all the answers.
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How do scientists monitor and predict solar storms?
Solar storms, also known as geomagnetic storms, can have a big impact on our technology and daily lives. Scientists use a variety of tools and methods to track solar activity and forecast when these storms might hit Earth. Curious about how they do it? Below, you'll find answers to common questions about solar storm monitoring and prediction, helping you understand how we stay ahead of these powerful space weather events.
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