Strong M8.1 solar flare erupts from geoeffective Region 4299, producing Earth-directed CME
A strong solar flare measuring M8.1 erupted from Active Region 4299 at 20:39 UTC on December 6, 2025. The event started at 20:29 and ended at 20:49 UTC. A full-halo coronal mass ejection was produced, with impact expected early to midday on December 9, potentially causing periods of G3 – Strong geomagnetic storming.
M8.1 solar flare on December 6, 2025. Credit: NASA/SDO, The Watchers
A Type II Radio Emission with an estimated velocity of 1 143 km/s was associated with the event, suggesting a coronal mass ejection (CME) was produced during the event.
In addition, a 10cm Radio burst lasting 4 minutes and with a peak flux of 1 100 sfu was registered from 20:35 to 20:39 UTC. A 10cm radio burst indicates that the electromagnetic burst associated with a solar flare at the 10cm wavelength was double or greater than the initial 10cm radio background.
This can be indicative of significant radio noise in association with a solar flare. This noise is generally short-lived but can cause interference for sensitive receivers, including radar, GPS, and satellite communications.
Region 4299 is located in a geoeffective position, suggesting CMEs produced by it are likely to be Earth-directed.
The region has a ‘beta-delta’ magnetic configuration and is capable of producing more strong eruptions on the Sun. Earth-directed CMEs from this region are likely in the days ahead.
SWPC forecasters call for a 70% chance of M- and a 15% chance of X-class solar flares through December 8.
Update
07:40 UTC, December 7
The flare produced a full-halo CME, expected to impact Earth early to midday on December 9, potentially causing periods of G3 – Strong geomagnetic storming.
According to SWPC, the effects are expected to be limited, with minor impacts to some technological infrastructure possible, but usually mitigable.
The aurora may become visible over many northern states and parts of the lower Midwest, extending into Oregon.
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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