Magnetic storm at the beginning of the year: what is predicted for the Sun on December 31

Astrophysicists warn of possible geomagnetic activity on the holiday night due to an M4-class solar flare and a coronal mass ejection recorded in the AR4318 region on December 28. According to forecasts, the consequences of this explosion will reach Earth in the early hours of January 1, 2026.

According to Spaceweather, there is no cause for concern. The expected magnetic storm is estimated at G1, the lowest level. It can cause only minor fluctuations in power grids and a minor impact on satellite operations.

An increase in the solar wind due to coronal hole CH1337 is also predicted for the holidays, but even in combination with the above factors, this will not cause serious consequences.

For Ukraine, this storm will pass unnoticed, and the aurora that may result from such weak activity will be visible only within the Arctic Circle.

In addition, the magnetic storm observed on November 29 has subsided, dropping to a green level with a K-index of 3.7, according to data from meteorological agencies and the British Geological Survey. Solar wind speeds remain elevated due to the effects of two coronal holes, but are gradually returning to normal levels.