G2 – Moderate geomagnetic storm predicted following long-duration C2 solar flare

A long-duration C2 solar flare erupted from an area west of AR 2962 on March 10/11, 2022, producing full halo coronal mass ejection (CME). As a result, a G2 – Moderate geomagnetic storm watch is in effect.

The event started around 18:00 UTC on March 10 and ended after 05:00 UTC on March 11 – more than 11 hours.

The CME was first observed in LASCO C2 imagery at around 19:30 UTC on March 10.¹

The arrival of this CME is expected on the 33^rd anniversary of the infamously named “Quebec Blackout” geomagnetic storm in March 1989, which resulted in power outages in Canada as well as auroral activity in lower than usual latitudes.²

Image credit: ESA/NASA LASCO C2 and C3

Space Weather Message Code: WATA30
Serial Number: 201
Issue Time: 2022 Mar 11 1802 UTC

WATCH: Geomagnetic Storm Category G2 Predicted

Highest Storm Level Predicted by Day:
Mar 12:  None (Below G1)   Mar 13:  None (Below G1)   Mar 14:  G2 (Moderate)

THIS SUPERSEDES ANY/ALL PRIOR WATCHES IN EFFECT

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.

References:

¹ Forecast Discussion Issued: 2022 Mar 11 1230 UTC Prepared by the U.S. Dept. of Commerce, NOAA, Space Weather Prediction Center

² Space Weather Alert – 11th March 2022 – BGS

Featured image: Full halo CME produced on March 10, 2022. Credit: ESA/NASA LASCO C2 and C3