Coronal mass ejection will cause a geomagnetic storm on July 24

On 21 July, a halo coronal mass ejection (CME) was observed when an elongated cloud of hot gas, suspended by magnetic fields above the sun's surface, was abruptly ejected into space. This solar filament’s disappearance, accompanied by the halo CME, disseminated materials from the Sun’s atmosphere in nearly all directions. The plasma, carrying the Sun's magnetic field, travels at varying speeds.

According to the Space Weather Prediction Center of the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), this CME is likely to cause a moderate geomagnetic storm on 24 July. As Earth intersects a dense sheet of energetic particles from the Sun, the atmosphere will warm up and expand, similar to how a hot air balloon swells. This phenomenon will increase drag on satellites and space debris, lowering their orbits.

Effects on Earth’s Atmosphere and Technology

The geomagnetic field of Earth will entrap these energetic particles, channeling them toward the poles and into the upper atmosphere. This interaction produces vivid polar lights. Additionally, geomagnetic storms on this scale induce currents in the ionosphere and in long conductors on Earth, such as copper cables and pipelines, risking fluctuations in power grids and potential infrastructure damage.

Measurement and Predicted Impact

The anticipated geomagnetic storm is forecasted to be a G2—moderate on the geomagnetic storm scale, which ranges from G1 to G5, with G5 representing extreme storms. Last observed in May 2024, a G5-level storm is the strongest in 20 years, expected to occur more frequently as the Sun nears the climax of its 11-year solar cycle.

Personal and Technological Impacts

Accompanying this geomagnetic activity, a kIndex level of 6 indicates moderate activity that might cause mild symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and mood alterations among weather-sensitive individuals. Electronic devices could experience minor disruptions affecting communication and navigation systems. Those sensitive to geomagnetic changes should stay hydrated, rest well, and limit exposure to electronics. Monitoring symptoms and seeking medical advice if needed is recommended.

Conclusion

While geomagnetic storms like the one predicted can impact both technology and weather-sensitive individuals, these effects are generally manageable with appropriate precautions and awareness.

Earlier, SSP wrote the forecast for solar storm and geomagnetic activity for July 23.