Geomagnetic storm reaching G2 – Moderate levels in progress

Geomagnetic storm reaching G2 – Moderate levels is currently in progress due to continued accelerated solar wind speeds and enhanced magnetospheric activity. 

This activity is attributed to a well connected coronal hole located just south of the solar Equatorial plane, SWPC said.

Under G2 – Moderate storm conditions, power grid fluctuations can occur and high-latitude power systems may experience voltage alarms. Satellite orientation irregularities may occur; increased drag on low Earth-orbit satellites is possible. HF (high frequency) radio propagation can fade at higher latitudes. Aurora may be seen as low as New York to Wisconsin to Washington state.

Space Weather Message Code: ALTK06
Serial Number: 339
Issue Time: 2015 May 13 0555 UTC

ALERT: Geomagnetic K-index of 6
Threshold Reached: 2015 May 13 0553 UTC
Synoptic Period: 0300-0600 UTC
 
Active Warning: Yes
NOAA Scale: G2 - Moderate

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

Potential Impacts: Area of impact primarily poleward of 55 degrees Geomagnetic Latitude.
Induced Currents - Power grid fluctuations can occur. High-latitude power systems may experience voltage alarms.
Spacecraft - Satellite orientation irregularities may occur; increased drag on low Earth-orbit satellites is possible.
Radio - HF (high frequency) radio propagation can fade at higher latitudes.
Aurora - Aurora may be seen as low as New York to Wisconsin to Washington state.

The high speed solar wind speed is expected to tapper off on May 14 through 15, bringing geomagnetic conditions below minor (G1 – Minor) thresholds. High-latitude sky watchers should remain alert for auroras. 

Zoltan Kenwell took the following images from Edmonton, Canada on May 12, 2015:

Image copyright: Zoltan Kenwell (InFocusImagery)

Image copyright: Zoltan Kenwell (InFocusImagery)

Image copyright: Zoltan Kenwell (InFocusImagery)

Featured image credit: Zoltan Kenwell (InFocusImagery)