Unsettled to active geomagnetic field levels expected, G1 geomagnetic storm watch in effect
Unsettled to active geomagnetic field levels are possible on January 5, 2021, due to the onset of an anticipated Solar Sector Boundary Crossing (SSBC) followed by coronal hole influence late in the day. G1 – Minor geomagnetic storm conditions are likely on January 6 due to the forecasted arrival of the coronal mass ejection (CME) produced on January 2 combined with ongoing coronal hole influence. Unsettled, with a chance for early, isolated active periods, are expected on January 7.
The CME was produced by a filament eruption in the Sun's southern hemisphere on January 2. Another CME was produced on January 1 — but it was a slow-moving CME overtaken by the faster CME produced on January 2.
While model runs suggest CME arrival on January 6, confidence is somewhat low in timing due to the anticipated interactions between the two CMEs coupled with a weak coronal hole high speed stream (CH HSS) due to arrive late on January 5.
G1 – Minor geomagnetic storm watch is in effect for January 6.
Image credit: NASA/SDO AIA304, Helioviewer
Solar activity was at very low levels over the past 24 hours, and the solar disk was spotless.
Solar wind parameters reflected nominal conditions during the same period.
Total field ranged from 3 – 7 nT, the Bz component saw no significant deflections, and wind speeds averaged near 300 km/s. Phi was in a positive solar sector.
The greater than 2 MeV electron flux reached moderate levels and the greater than 10 MeV proton flux was at background values.
Featured image: Filament eruption at 11:19 UTC on January 2, 2021. Credit: NASA/SDO AIA304, TW
If you value what we do here, create your ad-free account and support our journalism.
Your support makes a difference
Dear valued reader,
We hope that our website has been a valuable resource for you.
The reality is that it takes a lot of time, effort, and resources to maintain and grow this website. We rely on the support of readers like you to keep providing high-quality content.
If you have found our website to be helpful, please consider making a contribution to help us continue to bring you the information you need. Your support means the world to us and helps us to keep doing what we love.
Support us by choosing your support level – Silver, Gold or Platinum. Other support options include Patreon pledges and sending us a one-off payment using PayPal.
Thank you for your consideration. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Teo Blašković
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:
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.