Two Earth-directed CMEs, G2 – Moderate geomagnetic storm watch in effect
Featured image: Earth-directed CME produced on July 21, 2024. Credit: NASA/SDO AIA 304, Helioviewer, The Watchers
Two Earth-directed coronal mass ejections (CME) were produced over the past 3 days. The estimated time of arrival to Earth is late July 23 to midday July 24, 2024. A G2 – Moderate geomagnetic storm watch is in effect.
A disappearing solar filament (DSF), approximately 8 degrees in length, began erupting in the vicinity of Active Region 3757 (beta) after 16:10 UTC on July 21, 2024, producing an Earth-directed CME. The event coincided with an M1.0 flare from AR 3747.
A subsequent halo CME signature was observed in LASCO C2 imagery beginning at 16:48 UTC. The CME is forecast to reach Earth late on July 23 to midday (UTC) on July 24.
In addition, it appears another CME — produced on July 19, is expected to reach Earth around the same time.
As a result, a G2 – Moderate geomagnetic storm watch is in effect for July 24.
Under G2 conditions, power grid fluctuations can occur and high-latitude power systems may experience voltage alarms. Satellite orientation irregularities may occur and increased drag on low Earth-orbit satellites is possible.
High-frequency radio propagation can fade at higher latitudes and aurora may be seen as low as New York to Wisconsin to Washington state.
Wow, an eruption of AR3757 from the southeast side and spewed a large CME . @TamithaSkov @swmcintosh @JimWindweather @chunder10 pic.twitter.com/H8PMuWLK0a
— Industrial Engineer Irene Quiroz (@nenecallas) July 21, 2024
I now propose that today's halo CME was from the front side and that it may at least glance us on the 24th or 25th of July.
— Halo CME (@halocme) July 22, 2024
I initially thought the eruption was too narrow, heading mostly to north, but this animation may show its expanse sideways, especially over east limb. https://t.co/CYOqL0ueI4 pic.twitter.com/6s7u8RIhzT
Finally, our Sun aims straight! Region 3757 just launched an Earth-directed #solarstorm during a minor M1-flare. Storm impact likely early July 25. Waiting for prediction models for a more precise estimate. G1-G2 level conditions expected, with #aurora possible to mid-latitudes. pic.twitter.com/wetwbapfNC
— Dr. Tamitha Skov (@TamithaSkov) July 21, 2024
In EUHFORIA we see the two CME's and the time of arrival, active periods at Geomagnetic Storm level are predicted for July 23-25. Let's wait to see their evolution. https://t.co/77VFXpSHjB pic.twitter.com/909sAQKpzt
— Industrial Engineer Irene Quiroz (@nenecallas) July 22, 2024
A G2 Watch is in effect for 24 Jul due to the likely arrival of a halo CME that erupted on 21 Jul. pic.twitter.com/yeojShZkqH
— NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (@NWSSWPC) July 22, 2024
I'm a dedicated researcher, journalist, and editor at The Watchers. With over 20 years of experience in the media industry, I specialize in hard science news, focusing on extreme weather, seismic and volcanic activity, space weather, and astronomy, including near-Earth objects and planetary defense strategies. You can reach me at teo /at/ watchers.news.
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