The heliogeophysics service at the Institute of Applied Geophysics, named after academician EK Fedorov, reported that three strong M-class solar flares occurred on Sunday, July 16. The institute’s official site confirms the sequence and timing of these events, providing a reliable record for researchers and operators alike.
The first flare began near 11:26 am Moscow time, persisted for about 14 minutes, and briefly disrupted shortwave radio communications on Earth. This disruption underscores how atmospheric and space weather can affect everyday telecommunications and navigation services in real time.
The second flare appeared at 18:08 and lasted approximately 15 minutes, followed by a third flare detected at 20:46, which persisted for roughly 28 minutes. Each burst triggers a temporary shift in the near-Earth space environment and can influence satellite systems as well as radio propagation paths.
Earlier, researchers at the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Space Weather Prediction Center warned of a prolonged magnetic storm spanning June 18 to June 24, with a peak around June 20. Such forecasts help organizations anticipate potential effects on power grids, aviation, and communications networks, enabling better planning and risk mitigation.
During these events, individuals who are especially sensitive to weather and space weather changes are advised to stay informed through reliable alerts and to follow guidance from official sources. Real-time space weather monitoring services can help people schedule activities and reduce disruption to essential tasks.
Magnetic storms arise from disturbances in Earth’s magnetic field triggered by solar activity. The storm strength is categorized from G1, indicating a minor disturbance, to G5, indicating a major or extreme disturbance. Understanding these levels helps operators of critical infrastructure prepare for temporary changes in satellite performance and radio signal quality.
Historically, scientists have studied shielding and containment strategies to reduce the impacts of intense solar events and related magnetic disturbances. These efforts include considerations for security-sensitive environments and advanced technological systems, including contexts involving nuclear technologies. The insights inform safety protocols, emergency planning, and protective measures that safeguard people and sensitive operations in scenarios with potential exposure to space weather effects.