On January 3, 2025, a significant solar flare classified as X1.2 erupted from the sun, peaking at 6:40 a.m. EST (1140 GMT). This event originated from sunspot region AR 3947 and resulted in radio blackouts affecting areas of the Southern Atlantic, parts of Africa, and eastern South America.
Solar flares are categorized into four classes, with X-class flares being the most potent. The X1.2 flare indicates a strength that is ten times greater than the next category, M-class. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) rated the resulting blackout as R3 on its Space Weather Scale, signifying a 'Strong' impact.
Despite the intensity of the flare, NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) reported no coronal mass ejections (CMEs) that could affect Earth. CMEs can lead to geomagnetic storms, which have the potential to disrupt power grids and create auroras.
Forecasters predict that additional minor to moderate radio blackouts may occur due to ongoing solar activity throughout the weekend. Additionally, a Geomagnetic Storm Watch has been issued for a Category 1 storm (G1), the weakest classification, due to a CME that took place earlier in the week. The best opportunities for aurora viewing are expected in higher latitude regions such as Alaska and Canada.