12 July 2012
X-Class Solar Flare Today Was Facing Earth. Major Geomagnetic Storm Possible
Posted by Dan Satterfield
Image from the NASA Solar Dynamics Observatory
Late word from NASA this evening is that the X 1.4 solar flare today IS headed in our direction, and may produce a moderate to severe geomagnetic storm on Saturday when it arrives. It may produce auroras Saturday down to a latitude of 35 degrees!
From NASA- click to see the animation.
There is also a significant risk for geostationary satellites and cross polar flights will likely be impacted as well due to HF radio blackouts and some minor radiation risk. The flare produced a notable CME that will take until Saturday to arrive.
Am sure there will be some more cool videos and animations of the flare coming…stay tuned!
Dan Satterfield has worked as an on air meteorologist for 32 years in Oklahoma, Florida and Alabama. Forecasting weather is Dan's job, but all of Earth Science is his passion. This journal is where Dan writes about things he has too little time for on air. Dan blogs about peer-reviewed Earth science for Junior High level audiences and up.
Frances Loper Corwin said on 14 July 2012
Dan , I read your post about the latest X- Class solar flare & also saw that you worked in Florida & Alabama for some time. I live in Central Alabama , Tuscaloosa ~ Roll Tide Country . In your opinion , what are the chances that we will see some aurora activity here in West Central Alabama ?
I am hoping that we will see something in the wee am hours so I am staying up for it. I don’t know what to expect , but hope to see it & share the story with grandchildren one day ! Many Thanks .
Dan Satterfield said on 14 July 2012
Based on the latest I have seen it dos not look good. The Kp index is not likely to get high enough to bring the lights down to the mid latitudes but it is not easy to predict. Watch the Kp index on space weather.com and if it gets to 9 start looking!
Frances Loper Corwin said on 15 July 2012
Many Thanks , I will watch for the KP index to hit 9 . Blessings ~