S1 – Minor solar radiation storm in progress

An S1 – Minor solar radiation storm has been in progress since 02:50 UTC on July 23, 2024, and is expected to continue through the rest of the day and possibly into July 24.

Our planet has been experiencing an S1 – Minor solar radiation storm since 02:50 UTC today. This storm is a result of coronal mass ejection (CME) on the far side of the Sun, according to NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC).

The storm is expected to continue at S1 levels through July 23 and there’s a slight chance for S1 levels on July 24 and 25.

On average, such storms occur about 50 times per cycle. According to the NOAA, they pose no threat to biological life or satellite operations, but can have minor impacts on HF radio in the polar regions.

Solar activity was at high levels over the past 24+ hours, with an M2.4 solar flare at 14:28 UTC today and an M1.5 at 13:00 UTC yesterday. There’s a 60% chance of M-class flares and a 15% chance of X-class flares through July 25.

Solar wind parameters were slightly enhanced over the past 24 hours and are expected to continue at or near current levels through late July 23.

According to the SWPC, the onset of influence from a CME that left the Sun on July 21 is expected to enhance conditions over July 24 and 25. Other experts suggest Earth will be hit by two CMEs over this period — one launched on July 19 and the other on July 21.

As a result, G1 – Minor to G2 – Moderate geomagnetic storming is likely on July 24, followed by active conditions on July 25 as CME influences wane.

References:

¹ Forecast Discussion Issued – NOAA/SWPC – Issued at 12:00 UTC on July 23, 2024

Featured image credit: NOAA/SWPC