British and U.S. space-weather agencies warn a powerful geomagnetic storm is approaching: NOAA raised its alert from G3 to G4, and the British Geological Survey says it could reach G5 "extreme" levels. Satellite and ground particle measurements are among the largest since 2005, but precise timing and peak strength remain uncertain. The storm has already delayed a New Glenn launch carrying NASA's ESCAPADE spacecraft, and past G5 events disrupted GPS-dependent farm equipment and caused radio blackouts. Enhanced auroras are visible across much of North America.
Scientists Warn: Largest Solar Storm in More Than Two Decades Could Hit Earth
British and U.S. space-weather agencies warn a powerful geomagnetic storm is approaching: NOAA raised its alert from G3 to G4, and the British Geological Survey says it could reach G5 "extreme" levels. Satellite and ground particle measurements are among the largest since 2005, but precise timing and peak strength remain uncertain. The storm has already delayed a New Glenn launch carrying NASA's ESCAPADE spacecraft, and past G5 events disrupted GPS-dependent farm equipment and caused radio blackouts. Enhanced auroras are visible across much of North America.
05:31 AM, 11/13/2025Science
Powerful Solar Storm Approaching Earth
The British Geological Survey is warning that Earth may be struck by the most powerful solar storm seen in over twenty years. NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center has upgraded its alert for Wednesday from G3 ("strong") to G4 ("severe"), and the British Geological Survey says the event could intensify to G5 ("extreme").
"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," the British Geological Survey said.
What a G-scale storm means
Geomagnetic storms occur when the Sun ejects streams of charged particles that strike Earth's magnetic field. Depending on intensity, these storms can disrupt satellites, degrade GPS accuracy, interrupt radio communications, and — in severe cases — affect ground-based electrical and navigation systems.
Operational impacts and examples
The current disturbance has already affected space operations: Blue Origin postponed a second launch attempt of its New Glenn rocket after an initial scrub, citing highly elevated solar activity and potential impacts on NASA's ESCAPADE spacecraft that the rocket was to carry. Blue Origin said in a tweet that New Glenn remains ready to launch but that NASA is postponing until space weather conditions improve.
High solar activity is not new this cycle: NASA declared in October 2024 that the Sun had reached solar maximum, and activity continues to produce strong events. In May 2024, a G5-level storm disrupted GPS-dependent farm equipment, and in October 2024 a large solar flare produced a temporary radio blackout.
Timing and outlook
Forecasting exact arrival times and peak intensity is difficult. The British Geological Survey cautioned that "like any forecast, it is not possible to say with certainty exactly how big the storm will be," and noted that solar storms can reach Earth in as little as 17 hours or take much longer depending on their speed and trajectory.
Visible effects and guidance
One visible effect of the elevated particle flux is enhanced auroral activity: spectacular northern lights have been reported across much of North America and as far south as Alabama. Officials recommend monitoring updates from NOAA, the British Geological Survey, and mission operators if you depend on satellite services, aviation navigation, or sensitive ground infrastructure.
Stay informed: follow official space-weather advisories and be prepared for temporary disruptions to GPS, radio, and some satellite services.