The British Geological Survey (BGS) has now upgraded its alert to the highest possible level and said the ongoing storm is already affecting communications and satellite navigation.
It added that a second geomagnetic “cannibal storm”, feeding off the first, would begin impacting the UK by Wednesday afternoon.
The latest storm could be the biggest for 20 years, according to the BGS.
The highest alert type (G5) is used to warn people of possible power blackouts, GPS problems lasting days, and problems orienting spacecraft.
What causes a solar storm?
Explaining what causes a solar storm, the BGS states: “Geomagnetic storms are caused by solar activity interacting with the Earth’s magnetic field, which has implications for national energy infrastructure and navigation.”
However, the organisation points out that, as is the case for any forecast, it is not possible to say for certain how big or small the impact of a solar storm will be.
Discussing the current storm, it added: “Solar storms travel from the Sun and can reach Earth in as little as 17 hours, although they can also take significantly longer.
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“Based on satellite observations, we anticipate this event will be significant; early indications, such as ground measurements of solar energetic particles, are some of the largest recorded since 2005.”
Assuming the skies remain clear, there is an “increased chance” of seeing the aurora borealis from the UK tonight (Wednesday, November 12).
These sightings could be strongest in places like Scotland, Northern England and Northern Ireland.
