The probability of magnetic storms on Earth between May 7 and 8 will be elevated due to an expected increase in solar wind speed. This was reported by specialists from the Space Research Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences (IKI RAN) and the Institute of Solar-Terrestrial Physics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences (ISZF SO RAN).
According to scientists' forecasts, the probability of a full-fledged magnetic storm on each of the two days is estimated at approximately 33%. Another third accounts for the probability of weaker geomagnetic disturbances. In the remaining cases, Earth's magnetic field may remain in a calm, "green" zone.
Currently, the expected intensity of the event is assessed as moderate.
At the same time, specialists are already warning about the next period of increased solar activity – stronger geomagnetic disturbances are predicted from May 15 to 18.
Currently, the Sun's activity remains low, but the situation may change by the end of the week. Scientists attribute this to large groups of sunspots, which are currently on the far side of the star, emerging on the side of the Sun facing Earth.
