News reports and official statements from national power grid operators

Massive Sunspot AR3664 Triggers X-Class Flares, G4 Storms Threaten Grids, Northern Lights

May 10, 2024, 08:17 AM

A significant increase in solar activity, marked by the emergence of a massive sunspot AR3664, has led to heightened concerns over potential disruptions due to solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs). This sunspot, compared in size and appearance to the historic Carrington Event of 1859, has already unleashed several X-class solar flares, causing radio blackouts and posing a threat to satellite operations and power grids. Experts predict severe geomagnetic storms, possibly reaching a G4 level, which could impact high-latitude power systems and cause voltage alarms. The anticipated solar storms, forecasted to peak on Friday night, are also expected to enhance aurora visibility across various parts of North America and beyond, with potential sightings as far south as Virginia and Colorado. Authorities have issued a G4 watch, the first since 2005, urging satellite and power grid operators to prepare for these conditions. The northern lights may be visible in northern states, and there is a potential for global blackouts.