The sun sent a powerful stream of particles towards Earth, causing blackouts in the U.S. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported disruptions across North America around 12:51 pm ET. This solar flare, classified as X8.8, is the strongest in the current cycle that began in 2017. The flare originated from a sunspot, AR 3664, and was equivalent in size to the one responsible for the 1859 Carrington event. Despite rotating out of view, AR 3664 delivered one final blast before disappearing. The particles from the flare have the potential to disrupt communications, satellite systems, and power grids on Earth. The event, called a radiation storm, is driven by magnetic fields from the sun that interact with our planet. This recent solar activity follows NOAA’s alert for a severe Geomagnetic Storm Watch, the first in 20 years. Farmers in the American Midwest experienced GPS disruptions, while others witnessed the breathtaking Northern Lights display.
