Residents of the Moscow Region, Leningrad Region, Tatarstan, and Chelyabinsk Region are sharing photos of the Northern Lights. Unusual colorful flashes appeared in the night sky against the backdrop of a strong magnetic storm that began on the evening of October 10. The causes were revealed by the Laboratory of Solar Astronomy of IKI RAS and ISZF SB RAS.
The magnetic storm reached level G3 on a five-point scale. This means strong disturbances in the Earth's magnetic field. The last time a storm of such strength was observed was on July 4, 2026, emphasized the Laboratory of Solar Astronomy of IKI RAS and ISZF SB RAS.
The cause of the magnetic storm was clouds of solar plasma that reached Earth after a surge in solar activity earlier in the week. Upon entering the atmosphere, charged particles collide with gases and cause them to glow. This is how the Northern Lights occur. During strong magnetic storms, it can be seen not only in the north but also in the central regions of Russia.
According to forecasts, the magnetic storm may continue for about another day. But this does not mean that the Northern Lights will be visible everywhere all this time. To see it, you need a clear dark sky and a sufficiently bright glow. Clouds and city lights can hinder observations.
What is a magnetic storm?
A magnetic storm occurs when streams of charged particles from the Sun reach Earth and cause disturbances in its magnetic field. Usually, the magnetic field protects the planet from the effects of solar wind, but during strong ejections of solar plasma, it begins to fluctuate noticeably. Such events can last from several hours to several days.
During strong magnetic storms, satellite and radio communication failures can occur, the accuracy of satellite navigation can worsen, and additional electrical currents can appear in power grids.
For most people on the Earth's surface, magnetic storms do not pose a direct health hazard. However, some complain of headaches, weakness, sleep disturbances, and blood pressure fluctuations during magnetic storms.