CH HSS sparks G2 – Moderate geomagnetic storm

ch-hss-sparks-g2-moderate-geomagnetic-storm

Our planet is under the influence of a positive polarity Coronal Hole High Speed Stream (CH HSS) over the past 24 hours. Geomagnetic storms reaching G2 – Moderate levels were registered November 5.

Solar wind parameters reflected the passage of a Solar Sector Boundary Crossing (SSBC), followed by the onset of a Co-Rotating Interaction Region (CIR) ahead of positive polarity CH HSS over the past 24 hours, SWPC forecasters said 12:30 UTC, November 5, 2018. 

Solar wind speeds increased from 350 km/s at 12:23 UTC, November 4 to a peak of 631 km/s at 05:08 UTC, October 5. Total field reached a peak of 16 nT at 22:25 UTC on October 4 and Bz dropped to a low value of -12 nT at 21:29 UTC, November 4. Phi transitioned to a predominantly positive sector after 22:20 UTC, November 4.

Solar wind parameters are expected to remain enhanced on November 5 and 6 due to the continued influence of a positive polarity CH HSS. Conditions are expected to trend back towards near-background levels on November 7 as influence from the CH HSS is expected to slowly wane.

The geomagnetic field reached G2 – Moderate geomagnetic storm levels at 05:17 UTC, November 5. G1 – Minor geomagnetic storm conditions were observed at 20:59 UTC and 21:27 UTC on November 4, and 04:54 UTC, 07:37 UTC, and 10:45 UTC, November 5.

The geomagnetic field is expected to reach G1 – Minor to G2 – Moderate geomagnetic storm levels on November 5 due to the influence of a positive polarity CH HSS. Waning CH HSS effects are likely to produce active conditions on November 6 and unsettled levels on November 7.

"These types of storms can disorient animals that use magnetic cues for navigation at high latitudes, cause electrical currents to flow through soil in Arctic regions, and spark auroras visible from northern-tier US states such as Maine, Michigan, and Minnesota," SpaceWeather's Dr. Tony Philips said.

Featured image: Aurora taken by Philip Granrud on November 5, 2018 at Kalispell, Montana. (via SpaceWeather)

Share:

Commenting rules and guidelines

We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules:

  • Treat others with kindness and respect.
  • Stay on topic and contribute to the conversation in a meaningful way.
  • Do not use abusive or hateful language.
  • Do not spam or promote unrelated products or services.
  • Do not post any personal information or content that is illegal, obscene, or otherwise inappropriate.

We reserve the right to remove any comments that violate these rules. By commenting on our website, you agree to abide by these guidelines. Thank you for helping to create a positive and welcoming environment for all.

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *