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Sun releases the largest solar radiation storm ‘in over 20 years,’ forecasters say

Powerful solar activity released by the sun is heading for Earth and it’s likely to create dazzling auroral displays in unexpected areas Monday evening and early Tuesday morning. It could also disrupt satellite-based communications and GPS accuracy.

A solar radiation storm, ranked at a level four out of five on a severity scale, is being tracked by the National Weather Service’s Space Weather Prediction Center, or SWPC.

“An S4 severe solar radiation storm is now in progress – this is the largest solar radiation storm in over 20 years,” SWPC shared on X, formerly known as Twitter. “The last time S4 levels were observed was in October, 2003. Potential effects are mainly limited to space launch, aviation, and satellite operations.”

Northern lights may be visible in 24 states tonight as a massive CME slams into Earth

Auroras may be visible from Alaska to Colorado tonight as a speedy coronal mass ejection impacts Earth.

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A colossal coronal mass ejection (CME) has struck Earth, triggering severe (G4) geomagnetic storm conditions that could push the northern lights much farther south than usual tonight (Jan. 19–20). The impact, confirmed by NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center, is already stirring Earth's magnetic field — setting the stage for a potentially spectacular aurora display across the northern U.S. and possibly beyond.

NOAA confirmed that G4 (severe) geomagnetic storm levels were first reached at 2:38 p.m. EST (1938 GMT) on Jan. 19 following the shock arrival. The storm is ongoing, and NOAA says CME passage is expected to continue through the evening, with G4 conditions still possible. That means tonight's aurora prospects are even more promising — if skies are clear and the magnetic field orientation remains favorable.

G4 (Severe) Geomagnetic Storm Watch for 20 January UTC-Day

A G4 (Severe) geomagnetic storm watch is in effect for the 20 January UTC-day due to Earth-arrival of a coronal mass ejection (CME). The CME blasted from the Sun on 18 Jan, in association with an energetic R3 (Strong) solar flare from a sunspot region near center-disk, and is anticipated to arrive at Earth as early as late 19 Jan EST to early 20 Jan. While the G4 Watch is out for the 20 Jan UTC-day, geomagnetic storm levels could range from G1-G3 (Minor-Moderate) upon CME arrival later on 19 Jan EST. CME passage is expected to continue through 20 Jan, but conditions are likely to weaken later in the day. G1 levels remain possible on 21 Jan due to residual CME related effects. Forecasters have a fair measure of confidence in timing and of CME arrival at Earth. Please continue to visit our SWPC webpage for the latest forecasts, information, and updates.

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