343 A Big Flare Blast with a Glancing Storm Blow

2 Feb 2026Region 4366, a rapidly growing and magnetically complex sunspot region, erupted with an X8.3 class flare and a solar storm. While the storm is expected to be a glancing blow, it could still cause R3 level radio blackouts. The solar cycle is entering its final phase, with more active regions expected to rotate into view, potentially leading to further solar flares and storms.A weak solar storm is expected to impact Earth on the 5th, potentially causing minor auroral activity at high latitudes. However, the main concern is the increased solar activity from region 4366, leading to significant radio blackouts and potential disruptions to GPS and GNSS services, especially on the dayside. Aurora photographers at high latitudes may have a chance to capture a show, but those at mid-latitudes should only chase if dedicated.