A large coronal hole of unusual shape has formed on the surface of the Sun. The structure is clearly visible on the solar disk: it stretches almost across the entire star — from the south pole to the north — and resembles a giant rift. Scientists warn that in the coming hours, a high-speed stream of solar wind will begin to affect Earth, which will trigger a series of geomagnetic disturbances.
A coronal hole is an area with an open magnetic field through which solar wind escapes into space at an increased speed. The current formation differs from typical ones: instead of the usual rounded or "butterfly-like" contours, it looks like an extended rift. Experts note that the structure is long-lived: a month ago, during the previous rotation of the Sun, this same area had already crossed the visible disk and caused moderate magnetic storms.
Since the shape and size of the coronal hole have hardly changed, experts suggest a repeat of last year's scenario. During the last passage, the level of disturbances reached category G1–G2 on a five-point scale — moderate magnetic storms. This is the range that is predicted now.
The solar wind speed is expected to increase during the day, which will lead to an increase in geomagnetic indices. The first disturbances may begin closer to midnight. This structure is not capable of causing extreme events (level G4–G5).
With increased geomagnetic activity, the probability of observing auroras increases. In the visibility zone are regions above 55–60° north latitude: Murmansk and Arkhangelsk regions, Karelia, Komi, northern Siberia, and the Far East. In clear weather and the absence of urban light pollution, the phenomenon may become noticeable in middle latitudes as well.
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