Mystery ‘surprise’ solar storm hits earth leaving forecasters baffled – and impact could last for days

US Sun ^ | Jun 26 2022 | Rachel Dobkin

[BenLurkin]

A MINOR solar storm struck Earth over the weekend, sparking displays of the Northern Lights in the Arctic.

The storm was caused by a volley of radiation known as a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME), according to space weather trackers.

“Forecasters aren't sure why. The prime suspect is an unexpected CME embedded in the solar wind."

G1 storms can cause weak power grid fluctuations and have minor impacts on satellite communications.

“Expect unsettled to stormy conditions for the next 48-72 hrs.

“High latitude #aurora chasers should get good shows with sporadic views at mid-latitudes.

[higgmeister]

It would be interesting to hear from Ham operators that may be having propagation issues.

[higgmeister]

"eyeball QSO"

That made me laugh!   I didn't know there was such a thing!

I haven't had anything to do with HF since I got out og the USAF in '81.

[Myrddin]

An old friend in San Diego, WA6MHZ, still managed to participate from his sick bed in San Diego. He's a dyed in the wool ham. Pat commented that propagation was pretty poor on Field Day, but he did manage to log some desirable locations.

[dis.kevin]

I participated in field day from home this year. Set the radio up on the deck, used a portable antenna and battery power. Band conditions were terrible but made enough contacts to be happy.