Scientists Warn of Geomagnetic Storms as Solar Hole Faces Earth

Astronomers warned of imminent geomagnetic storms expected to impact Earth this weekend, triggered by the appearance of an unusual “equatorial coronal hole” on the surface of the sun.

According to the Solar Astronomy Laboratory at the Russian Academy of Sciences’ Space Research Institute, geomagnetic conditions are likely to deteriorate on September 13 and 14, with storms predicted to reach level two and three on a five-point scale.

Researchers explained that the massive solar hole emerged along the same plane in which the planets orbit. 

It reached the center of the visible solar disk on September 11, allowing streams of fast-moving solar wind to be directed straight toward Earth. 

The winds are forecast to arrive within 72 hours.

Data also shows September has been marked by unusually high geomagnetic activity. Three major storms have already been recorded in the first ten days of the month, compared to just one in August.

Scientists believe this surge may indicate the sun is approaching the peak of its current activity cycle. 

However, a recent decline in solar flares suggests the possibility of a temporary break in the usual pattern of solar behavior.