2014-01-09 12:36 UTC Awaiting CME Arrival
The ongoing Solar Radiation Storm peaked briefly just above the S3 (Strong) threshold but is now in decay and currently at S2 (Moderate) levels.
Enhancement back across the S3 level is possible with the anticipated coronal mass ejection (CME) arrival. The CME, originally expected to arrive around 0800 UTC (3:00 a.m. EST) today, January 9, is now slightly overdue.
However, pre-arrival signatures from EPAM data on the ACE spacecraft still show this transient en route. G3 (Strong) Geomagnetic Storm activity is still expected on January 9 and 10.
Updates here as this event unfolds.
Would this event explain the static affecting my FM radio reception this morning? (I cannot remember the last time I heard radio static.)
What is "the event"? Do sunspots affect power grids? satellite and other wireless transmission? the meanderings of the polar vortex? (yes, I know a vortex doesn't reander, sarcasm about the term). the magnetic poles?
These are serious questions. I really don't know why we should be concerned about solar flares on steroids.