The geomagnetic storm unleashed overnight by the biggest solar flare so far this year will not make a direct hit on Earth, but will strike more of a glancing blow early Thursday, forecasters at the Space Weather Prediction Center in Boulder, Colo., said this morning.
Greg Bernhardt said:I hope it's done by Friday! I have a flight on Saturday!
A solar flare is a sudden and intense burst of radiation from the sun's surface. It is caused by the release of magnetic energy build-up in the sun's atmosphere.
A strong solar flare can disrupt radio communications, satellite operations, and power grids on Earth. It can also cause auroras or northern lights in the polar regions.
The likelihood of a solar flare directly hitting Earth is low, but the effects of a strong solar flare can still impact our planet.
Scientists use satellites and ground-based telescopes to monitor the sun's activity and detect solar flares. They also use computer models to predict the path and intensity of a solar flare.
If a solar flare is heading towards Earth, it is important to follow any warnings or alerts from government agencies. People in high-risk areas may need to take precautions such as unplugging electronic devices and avoiding outdoor activities that rely on technology.