An intense sun flare has triggered a critical solar storm that may escalate to “extreme” levels as it continues to affect Earth, according to US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) officials. This storm, characterized by a coronal mass ejection (CME) that hit Earth around midday, can severely disrupt power grids and communication systems, including GPS and radio frequencies, while enhancing aurora displays far beyond their usual regions.
NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Group (SWPC) reported that the storm caused a “severe” geomagnetic disturbance. “Clear skies tonight could allow the northern lights to be seen as far south as Alabama and northern California,” SWPC officials noted.
The storm poses significant risks to infrastructure, particularly in areas like North Carolina and Florida, which are already grappling with power outages caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
This event follows a similar geomagnetic storm in May, which resulted from massive solar flares and led to widespread aurora sightings across the southern United States. Officials anticipate that this storm could have comparable effects on aurora visibility.
