G1 (Minor) geomagnetic storm underway

Earth is currently under the influence of a coronal hole high speed solar wind stream (CH HSS) which is causing geomagnetic storming around the poles.

K-index of 5 (G1-Minor) threshold was reached at 17:18 UTC today. 

Area of impact is primarily poleward of 60 degrees Geomagnetic Latitude. Weak power grid fluctuations can occur, minor impact on satellite operations is possible, aurora may be visible at high latitudes, i.e., northern tier of the U.S. such as northern Michigan and Maine.

The geomagnetic field is expected to continue at quiet to unsettled levels with isolated active periods possible from December 29 – 31 due to continued CH HSS effects.

Space Weather Message Code: ALTK05
Serial Number: 763
Issue Time: 2014 Dec 29 1718 UTC

ALERT: Geomagnetic K-index of 5
Threshold Reached: 2014 Dec 29 1718 UTC
Synoptic Period: 1500-1800 UTC
 
Active Warning: Yes
NOAA Scale: G1 - Minor

NOAA Space Weather Scale descriptions can be found at
www.swpc.noaa.gov/noaa-scales-explanation

Potential Impacts: Area of impact primarily poleward of 60 degrees Geomagnetic Latitude.
Induced Currents - Weak power grid fluctuations can occur.
Spacecraft - Minor impact on satellite operations possible.
Aurora - Aurora may be visible at high latitudes, i.e., northern tier of the U.S. such as northern Michigan and Maine.

Featured image: SWPC