Tallahassee, Florida – A rare G4 (Severe) solar storm is expected to impact Earth on Jan. 20, prompting increased monitoring of power systems and critical technology across Florida as federal space weather officials track incoming solar activity.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center, a coronal mass ejection (CME) launched from the Sun late last week is forecast to arrive late Sunday into Monday. G4-level geomagnetic storms are uncommon and can interfere with satellite operations, GPS accuracy, radio communications, and long-distance power transmission systems.
Florida lies well south of the regions most vulnerable to geomagnetic disturbances, and NOAA officials emphasize that widespread power outages are not expected. However, the state’s reliance on satellite-based navigation, aviation traffic, space operations, and coastal infrastructure makes monitoring necessary during severe space weather events.
Experts note that geomagnetic activity can affect GPS precision, which is used extensively in aviation, marine navigation, emergency response, and timing systems that support communications networks. Operators of critical systems typically increase monitoring and take precautionary steps during G4-level storms to protect sensitive equipment.
For most residents, the solar storm itself will not be noticeable. Cell phone service and internet connectivity are expected to remain largely unaffected. Minor GPS inaccuracies are possible, particularly affecting aviation operations, maritime navigation along Florida’s coastlines, and space-related activities.
Aurora displays are not expected in Florida due to the state’s low latitude.
NOAA forecasters say geomagnetic activity could persist at lower levels into Tuesday as space weather conditions gradually stabilize.
