Strong G3+ level geomagnetic storm recorded on Earth: power grid failures possible

Specialists from the Solar Astronomy Laboratory of the IKI RAN and ISZF SB RAS recorded a sharp increase in geomagnetic disturbances. The Kp index reached 7.33, which corresponds to a strong magnetic storm of category G3+ on a five-point scale. The last time a similar event was recorded was on June 1, 2025, after a direct "hit" of a large solar prominence on the Earth's magnetic field.

Currently, the auroral oval has moved to the western hemisphere, covering almost all of Canada and the northern states of the United States. Near-Earth space remains highly active due to the saturation of the solar wind with dense plasma formed during numerous solar flares in recent days. Although no impulse strikes on the planet have yet been recorded, some of the substance has reached the heights of the solar wind and is affecting the Earth's magnetic field.

Magnetic storms of level G3+ can affect various systems: power grid failures, false alarms of safety systems, and "boiling" of oil transformers are possible. Spacecraft may experience increased orbital drag, and ground systems may experience interruptions in satellite navigation, radio navigation, and high-frequency communications. Auroras at this time are visible even in middle latitudes.

The situation is unstable, the forecast for the next 24 hours is uncertain - the models do not describe the current level of disturbance. The power of the magnetic storm has increased from level G2 to G3, which indicates an increase in the impact on the planet.

Read materials on the topic:

• Hold on to your heads: the most powerful magnetic storm in three months has begun on Earth
• Scientists in bewilderment: an inexplicable magnetic storm occurred on Earth on September 10
• Earth has passed the peak of the magnetic storm, but the threat of new disturbances remains until June 4