Overview
- An X1-class solar flare on January 18 launched a coronal mass ejection toward Earth, setting off the current geomagnetic storm, according to UNAM’s SCIESMEX.
- NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center forecasts auroras across Canada and much of the northern United States, with a chance of lower-latitude sightings, and says activity may persist into Tuesday.
- NOAA described conditions as a severe S4 solar storm, the strongest in more than two decades, with potential effects on launches, aviation and satellite operations.
- Agencies caution about possible interference with satellites, GPS and radio communications, while noting no direct risk to people or to astronauts aboard the International Space Station.
- SCIESMEX is providing real-time monitoring and coordinating with Mexico’s civil protection authorities, as observers report auroras over Galicia and any viewing in northern Mexico remains uncertain and weather-dependent.