Astronomical observations, news reports

First Severe G4 Geomagnetic Storm in 20 Years to Hit, Disrupting GPS, Power, Enhancing Northern Lights in US, UK

May 10, 2024, 12:35 PM

A severe geomagnetic storm, classified as G4, the second-most intense level on a scale of 1-5, is expected to hit Earth this weekend. This is the first severe geomagnetic storm watch issued by NOAA in nearly 20 years, and the first of this magnitude since 2005, following a series of intense solar flares and coronal mass ejections. The storm could potentially disrupt GPS satellites, power grids, and high-frequency radios. Additionally, the storm is likely to enhance the visibility of the Northern Lights across much of the northern United States, Canada, the UK, and possibly as far south as Alabama and southern California. Viewing conditions will depend on cloud cover and light pollution in various regions.