A series of solar storms is headed toward Earth, with three coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from sunspot region AR4246 expected to arrive between Oct. 15 and 17.
The strongest activity is forecast for Oct. 16, when geomagnetic storms could reach G2 (moderate) levels, potentially causing minor satellite impacts, weak power grid fluctuations, and visible northern lights as far south as New York and Idaho.
Space weather physicist Tamitha Skov noted that the first CME will likely be mild, but the following three are closely spaced, which could amplify their effects.
Both NOAA and the U.K. Met Office highlight the potential for auroras in northern Scotland, Canada, and northern U.S. states if skies are clear and the solar magnetic field aligns favorably, Space.com has reported.
These storms are a result of magnetized plasma bursts from the sun colliding with Earth’s magnetic field, offering an exciting chance for aurora watchers.
