Sunspot AR4366 unleashed strongest flare of 2026 so far
Technology
On February 1, the sun fired off its biggest flare of 2026 so far—an X8-class flare (reported as X8.1-X8.3 in different reports) from sunspot AR4366.
It kicked off a wave of activity into Feb. 2, with more big flares following.
NOAA warns of more disruptions ahead
This flare caused temporary radio blackouts across parts of the South Pacific, Australia, and New Zealand.
NOAA says we should expect more strong flares as AR4366 keeps turning toward us—so there could be more disruptions ahead.
CMEs could deliver glancing blow to Earth
The solar storm's energy (CMEs) could deliver a glancing blow to Earth around February 5, possibly causing brief increases in geomagnetic activity and auroras at high latitudes.
If you're up north, keep an eye out for some epic lights—and check NOAA for updates!