Overview
- An X1.9 flare from Active Region 4341 launched a full‑halo CME that reached Earth in roughly 25 hours on Jan. 19, immediately driving G4 geomagnetic conditions.
- NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center confirms an S4 radiation storm in progress, with elevated particle levels persisting into Jan. 20.
- Auroras were widely observed across the continental United States, the UK and Europe, with reports as far south as Alabama, northern California and northern Italy.
- Officials notified FEMA, power‑grid operators and aviation interests, and consulted NASA regarding astronaut exposure on the International Space Station.
- Forecasters warn of potential impacts to satellites, HF radio and GNSS and possible grid voltage issues, with activity expected to gradually wane depending on solar‑wind conditions.