Aurora show ahead - Strongest solar flare since 2017

Sky watchers will be excited for this weekend as a geomagnetic storm is possible for Saturday and Sunday night after a pair of solar flares burst out this week.

The strongest solar flare since May 2024's X8.7-class flare just burst from the Sun on Thursday, October 3, 2024 with X9-class strength. In May, a G5 solar storm was produced and beautiful auroras were seen as far south as Texas. This time, a G3 solar storm could occur this weekend, once again bringing the chance for a mid-latitude northern lights show.

A G3 solar storm is considered strong and many impacts can happen, one of them being communication blackouts.

Low-frequency radio navigation can be problematic in addition to satellite issues. Power systems can even have false alarms triggered, according to NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center.

One of the more beautiful results of solar flares that are hurled right toward our planet is the northern lights. Be on the lookout this weekend and check the WeatherRadar for clear skies! Luckily, the moon just entered a new cycle, meaning its light will be low for easier aurora viewing.