Japan Records Geomagnetic Storm Linked to X‑Class Solar Flare

Overview

• The Japan Meteorological Agency reported a magnetic storm at its Kakioka/Ishioka geomagnetic observatory on January 21.
• The agency measured a maximum geomagnetic variation of 427 nanotesla as of 9 a.m. on January 21.
• JMA said the disturbance began in the early hours of January 20.
• Japan’s NICT confirmed an X‑class solar flare occurred at 3:09 a.m. on January 19.
• Officials believe the storm was triggered by the January 19 flare and advise that ongoing space‑weather conditions could increase GPS errors, disrupt shortwave radio, and affect satellite operations.