Our planet is presently experiencing a significant onslaught from one of the most potent categories of geomagnetic storms that solar activity can generate.
Due to a substantial solar eruption and a vast aperture in the Sun’s atmosphere, we are presently witnessing G4 conditions. This signifies a severe geomagnetic storm, potent enough to imperil power infrastructures as the energy derived from space weather disturbances induces electrical currents that traverse Earth’s magnetic field and the terrestrial crust.
Specialists indicate that this astronomical event has the potential to escalate to G5 levels. This extreme classification is responsible for the breathtaking auroral displays that captivated observers in May of 2024.
Indeed, meteorological agencies specializing in space weather across the globe are projecting intense auroral phenomena. Some forecasts suggest that the aurora might be visible at considerably lower latitudes than typically observed, potentially rivaling the geographical extent of the unprecedented superstorm witnessed in 2024.
This celestial spectacle can be observed via the embedded livestream positioned below.
A geomagnetic storm is fundamentally a consequence of solar activity. On January 18th, our star ejected a colossal X1.9-class flare, representing the zenith of solar flare intensity. While flares themselves do not precipitate geomagnetic storms, they often precede coronal mass ejections (CMEs) – massive expulsions of billions of tons of solar material intertwined with ejected magnetic fields.
Consider this phenomenon akin to a solar exhalation. When a CME, such as the one accompanying the X1.9 flare, is directed towards Earth, the immense energy it carries forcefully impacts our planet’s magnetosphere.
This impact accelerates charged particles already ensnared within the magnetosphere, guiding them along magnetic field lines and subsequently depositing them into the upper atmosphere, predominantly in the vicinity of the poles. The interaction of these particles with atmospheric constituents gives rise to the radiant spectacle of the aurora.
When a CME is further energized by an exceptionally swift stream of solar wind, the resultant geomagnetic storm can exhibit particularly dynamic characteristics. In the current instance, the CME is being closely followed by a substantial coronal hole. This represents an area on the Sun’s surface where magnetic fields are weakened and become more open, facilitating a more unimpeded outflow of the charged particle wind that constantly emanates from the Sun into the solar system.
At the moment of this report, the solar wind velocity was recorded at 1,069.9 kilometers per second (665 miles per second), which is nearly triple the typical average speed of approximately 400 kilometers per second.
A high-speed solar wind stream, in isolation, is capable of inducing auroral displays. However, when it converges with a CME, the visual impact of such displays can be significantly amplified.
The ramifications of such intense space weather phenomena encompass several potential hazards. The X-radiation associated with a solar flare commonly results in transient radio communication disruptions. Furthermore, geomagnetic disturbances instigated by a CME can interfere with radio communications and the operation of spacecraft, in addition to the aforementioned impact on electrical grids.
An additional pertinent aspect is the occurrence of a radiation storm. This event transpires when a potent solar eruption propels a massive cloud of high-energy particles, predominantly protons, outward from the Sun, preceding the arrival of the CME.
These energetic particles reach Earth considerably in advance of the CME itself and primarily pose risks to astronauts, satellite electronics, and aviation operating at higher latitudes, as the majority are attenuated by Earth’s atmosphere.
Radiation storms are cataloged according to the S-scale. The storm generated by this particular solar event attained S4 designation, marking the most formidable radiation storm observed since 2003, according to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center. As of this writing, its intensity had diminished to S2.
An S4 severe solar radiation storm is now in progress – this is the largest solar radiation storm in over 20 years. The last time S4 levels were observed was in October, 2003. Potential effects are mainly limited to space launch, aviation, and satellite operations. pic.twitter.com/kCjHj4XYzB
— NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (@NWSSWPC) January 19, 2026
Although the most intense phase of the radiation storm has abated, geomagnetic disturbances stemming from the CME may persist as Earth’s magnetic field continues to react to the ongoing solar wind conditions.
Your next step is to venture outdoors, direct your gaze skyward, and, contingent on favorable atmospheric conditions, partake in this extraordinary celestial exhibition.
