Today, August 18, about an hour ago, a planet-wide magnetic storm unexpectedly hit Earth, reports infohub.kz.
According to scientists, global networks of magnetic observatories registered a geomagnetic storm that began between 9 and 10 a.m. Astana time. So far it is weak, with an amplitude of G1.
"A deterioration of the geomagnetic situation was expected the day before, but it was thought that changes in space weather would not exceed the level of weak disturbances. Frankly, until now it seemed that would be the case. Solar wind parameters in the vicinity of the planet have remained at low values all this time, and it is even unclear how they could have shaken the Earth's field to storm levels," the statement said.
The laboratory noted that August is currently looking like a fairly active month - this is already the third magnetic storm in 18 days, which contrasts sharply with the low level of solar activity. "All observed storms, however, have so far been moderate, and none have exceeded the G2 threshold on the 5-point scale, where the highest level is G5. The duration of the current event is expected to be short. According to forecasts, the Earth's field will return to a weakly disturbed state by noon. At the same time, full stabilization may take 2-3 days," the scientists added.
The publication also states that the Earth is in the path of a fairly large coronal hole, and until this influence is removed, repeated bursts of disturbances may occur.