In the past week, significant solar flare activity has been observed on the Sun’s eastern limb, primarily from a group of sunspots known as Active Region 3842. On October 24, an X3.3-class flare was recorded, producing a wide partial halo coronal mass ejection (CME) directed mostly behind Earth’s orbit. However, a glancing blow from this CME is expected to impact Earth on October 26, potentially enhancing solar radiation storm conditions.
As of October 25, solar activity remains elevated, with predictions indicating a general range of R1 to R2 activity levels, but a chance of reaching R3 over the next few days.
The Sun currently has nine numbered sunspots, with those on the eastern limb being particularly large and complex. This activity suggests ongoing solar dynamics that may result in additional flares or related phenomena in the coming days.