[Regnum] Three M-class solar flares were detected on the sun on the night of October 16, the Institute of Applied Geophysics reported.
"On October 16 at 1:28 AM Moscow time, an M2.7 flare was recorded, lasting 51 minutes. At 2:45 AM Moscow time, an M2.4 flare was recorded, lasting 15 minutes. At 3:21 AM Moscow time, an M1.1 flare was recorded, lasting 7 minutes," the institute told TASS.
All three flares occurred within the same sunspot group.
Solar flares are classified into classes A, B, C, M, and X based on the intensity of their X-ray emissions. Each class is 10 times more powerful than the previous one. C flares are weak, M flares are moderate and can affect communications, and X flares are the most powerful, causing geomagnetic storms and disrupting equipment.
On October 15, scientists recorded 11 solar flares, including two strong M-level ones. The solar flare activity index was 8.1, exceeding the red level. Experts predict that the effects of these emissions will be felt on Earth from October 16 to 19. Geomagnetic storms and bright auroras are possible during this period.