Earth on track to experience cannibal CME effects
A major solar flare erupted from sunspot Region 4274 on November 11, sending a powerful coronal mass ejection (CME) toward Earth.
This CME is separate from two earlier ones, which could combine—creating what's called a "cannibal" CME—and spark strong geomagnetic storms over the next couple of days.
There's even a chance of a severe G4-class event.
What is a 'cannibal' CME?
Think of it like space weather teamwork: when a fast CME catches up to and merges with slower ones, they form an even stronger burst.
That's why scientists call it "cannibal"—one CME basically swallows another, making the impact on Earth's magnetic field more intense.
CMEs can disrupt satellites and power grids
CMEs can mess with satellites, GPS, and power grids—but they also create amazing auroras near the poles.
Auroras expected in northern US
If you're in the northern US or lower Midwest, keep an eye out after sunset—clear skies could bring rare views of bright auroras thanks to this unusually strong solar flare!