An X5-class powerhouse

11-11-25

MAJOR SOLAR FLARE AND CME:  

Sunspot 4274 erupted again this morning (1010 UTC), producing its strongest flare yet: An X5-class powerhouse. The flare caused a deep shortwave radio blackout over southern Africa and hurled a fast CME directly toward Earth. According to a preliminary NASA model, the CME will reach Earth on Nov. 12th, potentially adding itself to the Cannibal CME described below. This justifies a severe G4 geomagnetic storm watch for Nov 12th and 13th. CME impact alerts: SMS Text.

CANNIBAL CME ALERT: [Note: These two CMEs are preceding today's X5 CME.] Strong geomagnetic storms are possible on Nov. 12th when two CMEs are expected to hit Earth's magnetic field. In fact, the two storm clouds could merge to form a potent "Cannibal CME." This NOAA forecast model shows the merger happening just before they reach our planet:

Cannibal CMEs contain shock waves and enhanced magnetic fields that do a good job sparking and amplifying geomagnetic storms. The last time one hit, on April 15, 2025, it caused a severe G4-class storm with auroras sighted as far south as France.

The "cannibal" forecast is far from certain. NOAA's model shows the two CMEs merging just before they reach Earth. They could just as easily merge after passing our planet. If that happens, the double blow could still spark a strong G3 geomagnetic storm, so it's a win-win. Sky watchers should be alert for auroras on Wednesday night.