M3.9 solar flare, South pointing IMF

Monday, 9 November 2015 13:36 UTC

Strong M3.95 solar #flare from #sunspot region 12449 - Follow live on https://t.co/XHATH0OOfT pic.twitter.com/9e5llbbEjT

— SpaceWeatherLive (@_SpaceWeather_) 9 november 2015

Sunspot region 2449 is not directly facing Earth but if this event launches a coronal mass ejection, which seems likely right now, an earth-directed component shouldn't be excluded. SDO shows us coronal dimming and a massive coronal EUV wave which are excellent signs that a coronal mass ejection was launched. We keep you updated once SOHO coronagraph imagery becomes available.

Animation: SDO difference animation showing the coronal EUV wave. Source: SIDC.

ALERT: Type IV Radio Emission
Begin Time: 2015 Nov 09 1305 UTC

ALERT: Type II Radio Emission
Begin Time: 2015 Nov 09 1305 UTC
Estimated Velocity: 957 km/s

SUMMARY: 10cm Radio Burst
Begin Time: 2015 Nov 09 1300 UTC
Maximum Time: 2015 Nov 09 1306 UTC
End Time: 2015 Nov 09 1311 UTC
Duration: 11 minutes
Peak Flux: 670 sfu
Latest Penticton Noon Flux: 108 sfu

South pointing IMF

The direction of the IMF (Bz) is currently pointing southward near -5nT and has been doing so steadily for the past 18 hours or so. Active geomagnetic conditions are being observed and this could persist if the direction of the IMF continues point southward. This all likely has to do with coronal hole solar wind stream effects which could intensify in the coming 24 hours. A minor G1 geomagnetic storm watch remains in effect.

Image: Aurora Borealis as seen this night in northern Sweden by Marcel de Bont.