On May 5, 2024, the Sun unleashed powerful X1.3 and X1.2 solar flares from sunspot cluster AR 3663, causing radio blackouts on Earth. These flares, which are explosions of magnetic energy, could potentially have ongoing effects if they were accompanied by coronal mass ejections (CMEs).
At the time of the flares, there are a total of nine active sunspot clusters on the side of the Sun facing Earth, with AR 3663 being the most active. AR 3663 has already emitted multiple M-class and X-class flares, and scientists are predicting that more may be on the way.
Solar flares occur when magnetic field lines on the Sun snap and reconnect over sunspots, releasing X-ray and ultraviolet light. Sometimes, these flares are accompanied by CMEs, which can cause geomagnetic storms when they reach Earth. While there are currently no geomagnetic storms predicted from the May 5 flares, a previous solar flare is expected to generate a moderate geomagnetic storm on May 6.
Auroras, also known as the Northern and Southern Lights, may be visible as far south as New York, Wisconsin, and Washington state as a result of the increased solar activity. However, as AR 3663 rotates away from Earth, any future eruptions are likely to have a smaller impact.
With the Sun currently in the peak of its 11-year activity cycle, more solar activity is expected in the coming months. Scientists will continue to monitor the situation to assess any potential risks and impacts on Earth.
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