A colossal butterfly shaped hole in the sun atmosphere could spark a geomagnetic storm and auroras this weekend between September 13-14. Met office forcasted active G1 (minor) geomagnetic storm with a possibilty of G2 (moderate) level geomagnetic storm to reach Earth.
The high speed solar wind with a span of 310,000 miles is expected to reach Earth around September 14. NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction center has anticipated G1 level conditions only. However if solar wind’s is embedded in magnetic field lines of Earth can result in stronger activity.
Geomagnetic storms are gauged using G scale, G1 being the low level while G5 being the extreme level. Solar winds can lead to Auroras being formed when the wind interacts with Earth Magnetic field.
The charged particles released from the sun will collide with gases such as oxygen and nitrogen in the upper atmosphere and transfer energy to them. The energy released as light a result will produce colorful displays in sky that can be seen at night. The stronger the solar wind, wider the auroras can become.
If a G2 level storm develops this weekend, auroras can be visible at mid to high latitudes across the Northern Hemisphere and can be seen at northern parts of the U.K. In the Southern Hemisphere, auroras may be visible over southern New Zealand, according to the Met Office.
