Aurora Borealis at Shenandoah National Park in 2024
The G4-level storm could briefly affect satellites, navigation, and power systems, though experts stress it’s part of a normal solar cycle. AFP News

A rare solar storm may light up the northern sky this week and could briefly affect satellites and power systems. Scientists warn that an incoming 'cannibal' coronal mass ejection (CME) may rival the extraordinary May 2024 storm.

The event occurs when one solar eruption overtakes another, merging into a single, larger wave of charged particles and magnetic fields. Sunspot AR4274 has produced multiple strong X-class flares since early November, making this storm particularly unusual.

Forecasters say the storm may reach severe levels on the geomagnetic scale, producing auroras visible far beyond the polar regions. The merged CMEs could also cause temporary disruption to satellites, navigation and power networks.

What Is a 'Cannibal CME'?

A coronal mass ejection is a burst of solar plasma and magnetic fields ejected from the Sun's atmosphere. A 'cannibal' CME occurs when a faster eruption overtakes a slower one, creating a larger and more complex cloud of charged particles. This can intensify geomagnetic storms when the merged CME interacts with Earth's magnetic field, according to EarthSky.

Modelling suggests the combined CME could produce longer-lasting auroras with greater intensity than typical events. Scientists emphasise, however, that the effects will vary depending on the orientation of the solar magnetic field, known as the Bz component, which determines how strongly the storm interacts with Earth's magnetosphere.

Where and When to See It

If the storm unfolds as expected, auroras could be visible across much of Scandinavia, northern England, and Scotland, and possibly further south from darker rural locations. UK viewers are advised to seek clear skies away from city lights and to watch the northern horizon after dark for the best chance of seeing the display, according to Space.com.

Across North America, visibility could extend into the northern United States, while central Europe may also witness bright auroral activity. Peak displays are likely in the hours immediately following the storm's arrival, forecast for late on 12 November or early on 13 November, depending on the solar wind's speed.

Potential Risks and Wider Impact

Although the incoming storm is predicted to reach G4, or severe, on the geomagnetic scale, it is one step below the most extreme category, G5. Even so, severe geomagnetic storms can temporarily affect power grids, disrupt satellite navigation and radio communications, and increase radiation exposure on polar flight routes, according to ScienceAlert.

The May 2024 superstorm, which reached G5, produced auroras as far south as Florida and northern Africa and caused brief satellite signal disruptions. While this event is unlikely to match that intensity, scientists say the cannibal CME's dynamics mean it could still be among the most significant space-weather events of the year.

Scientists Urge Perspective

Experts stress that solar storms are a natural part of the Sun's 11-year cycle, with increased activity during solar maximum. The vivid aurora spectacle comes with inherent uncertainty as cloud cover, magnetic orientation and local conditions may all influence visibility.

Whether this week's storm becomes a once-in-a-decade light show or a moderate display will depend on a few unpredictable solar variables. For UK and northern-hemisphere viewers, it is an opportunity to witness a rare natural phenomenon while also serving as a reminder of the ongoing influence of solar activity on modern technology.

Writer's pick