M-class solar flares and active aurora

Tuesday, 14 October 2014 21:26 UTC

The source of these solar flares is located behind the east limb and as a result, these solar flares might have been stronger than the M1 and M2-classes as recored by GOES-15. There are two familiar sunspot regions about to return and one of them is likely the source of these solar flares: old sunspot region 2173 or 2172. A coronal mass ejection was likely launched but it will of course be directed away from Earth.

NOAA SWPC alerts

SUMMARY: 10cm Radio Burst
Begin Time: 2014 Oct 14 1840 UTC
Maximum Time: 2014 Oct 14 1847 UTC
End Time: 2014 Oct 14 1858 UTC
Duration: 18 minutes
Peak Flux: 1300 sfu
Latest Penticton Noon Flux: 113 sfu

SUMMARY: 10cm Radio Burst
Begin Time: 2014 Oct 14 2026 UTC
Maximum Time: 2014 Oct 14 2037 UTC
End Time: 2014 Oct 14 2056 UTC
Duration: 30 minutes
Peak Flux: 180 sfu
Latest Penticton Noon Flux: 120 sfu

Image: NASA SDO.

Geomagnetic conditions

Geomagnetic conditions are currently active (Kp4) according to the Wing-Kp index following favourable solar wind and IMF conditions likely related to a coronal hole high speed stream. Be sure to read our previous news item for more information. Conditions remain favourable for active (Kp4) geomagnetic conditions with a chance for minor G1 geomagnetic storming conditions in the hours ahead so also sky watchers in the northern parts of the United States should be alert for aurora. The NOAA SWPC has confirmed that G1 geomagnetic condtions have been reached with the observed Wing-Kp index being slightly below that value.

In Europe, aurora displays have been observed and are still possible to be seen from Scotland, Norway, large parts of Sweden, Finland and even Estonia. The images below were taken just a few hours ago by SpaceWeatherLive teammember Marcel from Luleå, Sweden.

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