Sun unleashes X-class solar flare, blasts 3rd coronal mass ejection toward Earth in a week

Three coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are currently heading toward Earth, potentially increasing the chances of seeing auroras across the northern U.S. and Europe this weekend.

These CMEs, which are massive bursts of magnetic field and plasma from solar flares, could trigger geomagnetic storms that create the vibrant auroras.

The CMEs, originating from solar flares on August 7 and 8, coincide with the peak of the Perseid meteor shower, offering a potential double celestial display, Space.com has reported.

The strongest flare, an X1.3 from sunspot region AR3777, caused shortwave radio disruptions across North America. A G2 (Moderate) solar storm watch is in place through Sunday as the CMEs approach.

Written by B.C. Begley