Strongest Solar Radiation Storm Hits Earth, Triggers Spectacular Auroras Globally

• A severe G4 geomagnetic storm, caused by an X1.9-class solar flare and coronal mass ejection (CME) on January 18, led to widespread aurora sightings.
• Auroras were visible across Europe, including China, Scandinavia, UK, Germany, France, Hungary, and even as far south as Arizona, Texas, and Southern California.
• The National Weather Service's Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) issued a Level 4 out of 5 solar radiation storm warning, the largest in over 20 years.
• The storm poses risks of disrupting satellite communications, GPS accuracy, and radiation exposure for astronauts and polar flight passengers.
• Airlines, NASA, FAA, FEMA, and other operators were notified to prepare; further Earth-directed eruptions and flares are possible in the coming week.

Why It Matters: Earth experienced its strongest solar radiation storm in two decades, causing global aurora displays and potential tech disruptions.