What's happening in the Space Weather? Find out with the latest news and updates on solar activity and auroral activity

We kick of the month of July with some nice solar activity! Sunspot region 4479 has been growing nicely and is now a complex Beta-Gamma-Delta region which yesterday at 20:50 UTC erupted with an X1.1 (R3-strong) solar flare. The solar flare was eruptive and launched a coronal mass ejection into sp...

A coronal mass ejection accompanied the X1.1 solar flare.

Solar radio bursts (SRBs) are intense emissions observed in radio wavelengths most frequently during solar transients, such as coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and flares. SRBs are direct signatures of accelerated electrons in the solar atmosphere. These solar transients have a direct impact on the near-Earth atmosphere. SRBs serve as key diagnostic tools for plasma processes, particle accelerations, magnetic field dynamics in the solar corona and the heliosphere, which are the root cause of these solar transients. There are several key science question which solar radio observations can answer, such as: When $\&$ where is the bulk of the energy released in flares?, what are the physical properties of the energy release site?, what are the properties of heated plasma $\&$ accelerated particles?, how does the transport of heated plasma $\&$ accelerated particles?, what bearing do flares have on the question of coronal heating? The Square Kilometre Array (SKA), with its unprecedented sensitivity, temporal, spectral, and spatial resolution, as well as dynamic range, is expected to provide an enhanced understanding of the physics behind solar transients with unprecedented detail.

The fractional Poisson process (FPP) generalizes the standard Poisson process by replacing exponentially distributed return times with Mittag-Leffler distributed ones with an extra tail parameter, allowing for greater flexibility. The FPP has been applied in various fields, such as modeling occurrences of extratropical cyclones in meteorology and solar flares in physics. We propose a new estimation method for the parameters of the FPP, based on minimizing the distance between the empirical and the theoretical distribution at selected quantiles. We conduct an extensive simulation study to evaluate the advantages and limitations of the new estimation method and to compare it with several competing estimators, some of which have not yet been examined in the Mittag-Leffler setting. To enhance the applicability of the FPP in real-world scenarios, particularly in meteorology, we propose a method for incorporating seasonality into the FPP through distance-based weighting. We then analyze the return times of relative vorticity extremes in the North Atlantic-European region using our seasonal modeling approach.

The temporal morphology of flare light curves encodes the underlying flare physics, and deviations from the typical flare profile may indicate the presence of mechanisms not captured by a standard flare model. To search for such time-domain deviations from a "standard" flare, we develop an unsupervised Deep Support Vector Data Description (Deep SVDD) model, which learns a compact representation of normal flares, against which unseen anomalous flares are identified. The model is trained on synthetic light curves with a "normal" flare morphology, generated from existing analytical flare trend models with noise. Using the distribution of normal flare data, we introduce a probabilistic Flare Anomaly Index (FLAI) which allows for separating flare light curves into three distinct classes: normal data (ND), weak anomalies (WA), and strong anomalies (SA). Application of FLAI to the Kepler flare catalogue (white light) reveals that 36% and 30% of events belong to the WA and SA classes, respectively. For M- and X-class solar flares from the STIX flare list, 25% and 32% of events in the 15-25 keV channel are classified as WA and SA, respectively, versus 15% for both WA and SA classes in the 4-10 keV channel. Thus, anomalous flares appear more frequently in the STIX high-energy channel. These results show that both solar and stellar flares often deviate from the normal flare population used for model training, suggesting departures from the standard flare scenario, such as modified energy release and dissipation, or the development of wave and oscillatory processes in flare sites.

The event was associated with a Type Radio II radio emission with an estimated shock speed of 380 km/s, suggesting a coronal mass ejection (CME) was produced. The eruption originated from Active Region 4473, located in the SE quadrant — not favorable for Earth-directed CMEs. Coronagraph imagery was still unavailable at the time of press, and analysis of the event was in progress. The same region produced an M1.0 flare at 15:00 UTC on June 20 and an M2.6 flare at 02:46 UTC on June 21. Radio frequencies were forecast to be most affected over North America and the Pacific Ocean at the time of the flare. Sunspots on June 21, 2026. Credit: NASA SDO/HMI Image credit: SWPC The greater than 2 MeV electron flux remained at normal to moderate levels in 24 hours to 12:30 UTC on June 21, while the greater than 10 MeV proton flux stayed at background levels. Both are expected to remain unchanged through June 23, with electron flux continuing at normal to moderate levels and proton flux persisting at background levels. Solar wind parameters returned to background levels during the same period. Total magnetic field strength reached 7 nT, the Bz component varied between +/-5 nT, and solar wind speed held between 350 and 400 km/s. The phi angle was predominantly positive. Background solar wind conditions are expected to prevail through June 22, followed by enhanced conditions on June 23 due to the expected onset of negative polarity coronal hole high speed stream influence (CH HSS). The geomagnetic field was quiet during the past 24 hours. Mostly quiet conditions are expected to continue through June 22, with active periods likely on June 23 as the negative polarity CH HSS influence begins. References: 1 Forecast Discussion – NOAA/SWPC – June 21, 2026 Author profileArticles __ __ __ ##### Teo Blašković I'm a dedicated researcher, journalist, and editor at The Watchers. With over 20 years of experience in the media industry, I specialize in hard science news, focusing on extreme weather, seismic and volcanic activity, space weather, and astronomy, including near-Earth objects and planetary defense strategies. You can reach me at teo /at/ watchers.news. * Teo Blašković __The Weekly Volcanic Activity Report: June 11-17, 2026 * Teo Blašković __Shallow M6.6 and M6.0 earthquakes hit near the east coast of Kamchatka, Russia * Teo Blašković __Shallow M6.6 earthquake hits central Mid-Atlantic Ridge * Teo Blašković __Strong and shallow M6.3 earthquake hits northern Qinghai, China Share:

Table of Contents Toggle * How to Prepare for a Solar Flare: Safeguarding Your Life and Technology * Understanding Solar Flares and Their Potential Impact * Assessing Your Personal Vulnerability * Shielding Sensitive Electronics * Establishing Alternative Communication Methods * Stocking Essential Supplies * Understanding the Power Grid Vulnerability * Mitigation Strategies for Grid Disruptions * Knowing the Warning Signs * Adapting Daily Routines and Staying Informed * Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ## How to Prepare for a Solar Flare: Safeguarding Your Life and Technology To **_prepare for a solar flare_** , focus on shielding sensitive electronics, establishing alternative communication methods, stocking essential supplies (food, water, medicine), and learning to operate independently of the power grid during potential disruptions. _This proactive approach will mitigate the impact of even the most significant solar events._ **You may also want to know:** Are Bing and Yahoo the Same? · Are Sony and Murata Partners? ### Understanding Solar Flares and Their Potential Impact Solar flares are sudden releases of energy from the Sun’s surface, capable of emitting intense radiation across the electromagnetic spectrum. While the Earth’s atmosphere and magnetic field generally protect us, particularly strong flares can still disrupt technological systems and impact our lives. Understanding the risks is the first step in **how to prepare for a solar flare**. ## Related Questions * Are Numbers the Same as Excel? * Are People Notified When You Screenshot Instagram Content? * Are YouTube Premium and YouTube TV the Same? ### Assessing Your Personal Vulnerability Consider your reliance on technology. Do you depend heavily on smartphones, the internet, and electricity for communication, work, and essential services? If so, you are likely more vulnerable to the disruptions a solar flare could cause. Furthermore, consider your location. Areas closer to the poles are generally more susceptible to geomagnetic disturbances caused by solar flares. ### Shielding Sensitive Electronics Protecting your valuable and essential electronic devices is crucial. A Faraday cage, a metal enclosure that blocks electromagnetic fields, can offer significant protection. * Smaller devices like smartphones, laptops, and radios can be wrapped in multiple layers of aluminum foil or placed in a metal box with a tightly fitting lid. * For larger electronics, consider investing in commercially available Faraday bags or constructing a Faraday cage using metal mesh or sheeting. ### Establishing Alternative Communication Methods In the event of a widespread power outage and cellular network disruption, alternative communication methods are vital. * **Handheld Ham Radios:** These allow for communication over long distances without relying on infrastructure. Learning how to operate and maintain a ham radio is essential. * **Satellite Phones:** Offer a more reliable communication option than cellular phones, although they require a subscription. * **Two-Way Radios (Walkie-Talkies):** Useful for local communication within a neighborhood or family group. ### Stocking Essential Supplies Similar to preparing for any natural disaster, stocking essential supplies is a crucial step in **how to prepare for a solar flare**. Next question: Are Numbers the Same as Excel? * **Food and Water:** Store a minimum of a two-week supply of non-perishable food and water. * **Medications:** Ensure you have an adequate supply of prescription and over-the-counter medications. * **First-Aid Kit:** A well-stocked first-aid kit is essential for treating injuries. * **Lighting:** Stock up on flashlights, lanterns, and batteries. Consider solar-powered options. * **Hygiene Supplies:** Soap, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and other essential hygiene items. ### Understanding the Power Grid Vulnerability Solar flares can induce geomagnetic disturbances that overload power grids, leading to widespread blackouts. Understanding this vulnerability is paramount in **how to prepare for a solar flare**. Many older power grids lack the built-in safeguards necessary to handle extreme solar events. ### Mitigation Strategies for Grid Disruptions * **Home Power Backup:** Consider installing a generator or a solar power system with battery storage. * **Emergency Preparedness Kit:** Include items that can help you cope with a power outage, such as blankets, candles, and a portable radio. * **Community Planning:** Work with your local community to develop a plan for dealing with a widespread power outage. ### Knowing the Warning Signs Keep an eye on space weather forecasts from organizations like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC). These forecasts can provide advance warning of potentially disruptive solar activity. ### Adapting Daily Routines and Staying Informed Familiarize yourself with basic survival skills, such as starting a fire without modern tools and purifying water. Stay informed about developments in space weather forecasting and preparedness strategies. Here is a table that provides a succinct summary of the advice provided on **how to prepare for a solar flare**. Preparation Area | Recommended Actions ---|--- Electronics Protection | Utilize Faraday cages/bags; wrap devices in aluminum foil. Communication | Acquire/learn to use ham radios and satellite phones; maintain two-way radios for local communication. Essential Supplies | Stock non-perishable food, water, medications, first-aid kit, lighting, and hygiene supplies. Power Outage Prep | Install home power backup; create an emergency preparedness kit. Awareness | Monitor space weather forecasts from NOAA/SWPC. Skills | Learn survival skills, such as fire starting and water purification. Stay informed of ongoing space weather updates and predictions. ### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) **What is the likelihood of a solar flare causing widespread damage?** The likelihood of a solar flare causing widespread damage is relatively _low_ in any given year, but the potential impact is _high_. Major solar events that could significantly disrupt technology and infrastructure are estimated to occur every few decades. The most powerful solar flare on record, the Carrington Event of 1859, caused telegraph systems to fail worldwide. A similar event today would have far more significant consequences given our reliance on technology. **How much advance warning will we receive before a major solar flare?** We typically receive _hours_ or _days_ of warning before a major solar flare reaches Earth. Space weather monitoring satellites detect solar activity and provide forecasts that can alert us to potential disruptions. However, the accuracy of these forecasts varies, and it’s essential to be prepared even with limited warning. **What is a coronal mass ejection (CME), and how is it related to solar flares?** A coronal mass ejection (CME) is a _large expulsion of plasma and magnetic field_ from the Sun’s corona. CMEs are often associated with solar flares, but they are distinct phenomena. While flares are bursts of electromagnetic radiation, CMEs are ejections of matter. CMEs can cause geomagnetic storms when they interact with Earth’s magnetic field, leading to disruptions in power grids, communication systems, and satellite operations. **What is the best way to protect my car’s electronics from a solar flare?** Protecting a car’s electronics is tricky. The metal body provides some shielding, but it’s not a perfect Faraday cage. Parking in a garage, especially an underground one, could offer additional protection. Disconnecting the car battery might help prevent damage, but this could also disable essential safety systems. _The best approach is preparation at a societal level and hardening of the overall grid_. **Can a solar flare damage my home appliances?** While unlikely for most solar flares, _a very powerful event could potentially damage sensitive electronics_ in home appliances. Unplugging appliances during a solar storm warning is a good precaution. Investing in surge protectors can also help protect against power surges caused by geomagnetic disturbances. **Is it safe to look directly at the Sun during a solar flare?** _No, it is never safe to look directly at the Sun without proper eye protection_ , even during a solar flare. The intense radiation from the Sun can damage your eyes, leading to vision problems or even blindness. **Will a solar flare affect air travel?** Yes, a solar flare can affect air travel. Geomagnetic storms can _disrupt radio communications and navigation systems_ , making it difficult for pilots to communicate with air traffic control. Airlines may need to reroute flights or delay departures during periods of intense solar activity. **What role do satellites play in monitoring solar activity?** Satellites play a _crucial role_ in monitoring solar activity. Space weather satellites, such as the Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) and the Advanced Composition Explorer (ACE), provide continuous observations of the Sun, allowing scientists to track solar flares, CMEs, and other phenomena. This data is used to create space weather forecasts and provide warnings of potential disruptions. **How can I find reliable information about space weather?** You can find reliable information about space weather from several sources: * **NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC):** Offers forecasts, alerts, and real-time data on solar activity. * **NASA:** Provides information and resources on space weather research and missions. * **SpaceWeather.com:** A website that provides up-to-date information and images of solar activity. **What are the long-term effects of a major solar flare on the Earth’s climate?** While individual solar flares are not directly responsible for climate change, long-term variations in solar activity can influence Earth’s climate. Changes in the Sun’s energy output can affect _temperature patterns and atmospheric circulation_. However, the effects of solar activity on climate are complex and still being studied. **Is the Earth’s magnetic field weakening, and does this make us more vulnerable to solar flares?** Yes, the Earth’s magnetic field is _weakening in some areas_ , particularly over the South Atlantic. A weaker magnetic field makes those regions more vulnerable to the effects of solar flares and CMEs. This can lead to increased radiation exposure and greater potential for technological disruptions. **What steps can governments and industries take to mitigate the risks of solar flares?** Governments and industries can take several steps to mitigate the risks of solar flares: * **Investing in space weather monitoring and forecasting capabilities.** * **Strengthening the resilience of power grids and communication systems.** * **Developing backup systems and emergency response plans.** * **Educating the public about the potential impacts of solar flares and preparedness measures.**