NASA issues warning for major solar storm that has already caused radio blackouts on Earth
Scientists warn that Earth may face widespread blackouts and communication disruptions as the strongest solar flare of 2025 – classified as X2.7 – erupted from the sun on May 14. NASA confirmed the flare originated from sunspot AR4087, which is now directly facing Earth, having already caused 10-minute radio blackouts in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. Experts caution the event could further disrupt GPS, power grids, and spacecraft operations, while potentially triggering spectacular auroras across northern U.S. states including Michigan, Alaska, and Maine.
While no coronal mass ejection (CME) has been detected yet, NASA and NOAA are closely monitoring the sunspot as the sun approaches its 11-year activity peak. Space weather physicist Vincent Ledvina noted the flare’s energy could significantly impact radio and GPS signals. However, NOAA reassures that X-class flares remain rare, Earth’s magnetic field protects against harmful radiation, and the immediate risk of further disruptions is currently low. The situation highlights growing concerns about solar storms’ potential to cripple modern infrastructure as solar activity intensifies.
