Solar flare and plasma cloud expected to reach Earth on October 9

A strong solar flare and subsequent coronal mass ejection (CME) from the Sun's active region AR4549 are expected to reach Earth on Friday, October 9. NASA and NOAA models predict the arrival of the plasma cloud, which is traveling at speeds of approximately 560 to 570 kilometers per second.

Forecasters anticipate a moderate G2-class geomagnetic storm. Such an event may cause technical disruptions, including voltage oscillations in power grids, increased atmospheric drag on low-orbit satellites, and potential interference with high-frequency radio communications and GPS accuracy, particularly in polar regions.

While the Earth's atmosphere and magnetic field protect the population from direct harm, the storm may enhance the visibility of the aurora borealis. Under G2 conditions, auroras are expected to be visible at high latitudes, including parts of Scandinavia, northern United Kingdom, and the United States.