A geomagnetic storm may affect Earth on September 24, according to a forecast from scientists at the Solar Astronomy Laboratory of the Space Research Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences.
Researchers say the expected geomagnetic disturbance is associated with a relatively large coronal hole on the Sun. Such regions allow high-speed streams of solar wind to escape into space, and when these streams reach Earth they can disturb the planet’s magnetic field.
According to the forecast, the coronal hole extends from the Sun’s southern polar region toward the equator, with its equatorial portion positioned in a way that could influence conditions near Earth.
The first geomagnetic storm of the current autumn was recorded on September 8. Several days earlier, solar activity had sent plasma into space, with the resulting disturbance reaching Earth around September 7 and contributing to prolonged geomagnetic activity.
Geomagnetic storms can affect satellites, radio communications, navigation systems and, during stronger events, electrical infrastructure. Their intensity can change as updated observations of the solar wind become available.
Scientists continue to monitor solar activity and geomagnetic conditions, meaning forecasts may be revised as September 24 approaches.
