Northern lights shine in the night sky Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, in Brandenburg, Germany.  (Patrick Pleul/dpa via AP)
Science
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Moneycontrol21-01-2026, 15:31

Largest Solar Storm in 20 Years Triggers Global Auroras, Disrupts Signals

  • Earth experienced its largest solar storm in over two decades, triggered by an X1.9 solar flare from active region 14341.
  • The powerful coronal mass ejection (CME) reached Earth on Tuesday, causing extreme geomagnetic conditions classified as G4 by NOAA.
  • The storm led to spectacular auroral displays visible across Europe and North America, including as far south as California and Chicago.
  • While posing no direct human health risk, the storm disrupted low Earth orbit satellites and caused minor GPS inaccuracies.
  • Scientists are closely monitoring solar region 14341 as residual effects may continue and further eruptions are possible.

Why It Matters: A historic solar storm caused widespread auroras and minor tech disruptions, highlighting space weather's impact.

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