Space Weather Forecast - Discussion

Issued: 2026 Apr 20 0030 UTC
Prepared by the U.S. Dept. of Commerce, NOAA, Space Weather Prediction Center and processed by SpaceWeatherLive.com

Solar activity

24 h Summary

Solar activity was at very low levels with only B-level enhancements observed. Region 4415 (S18W74, Hsx/alpha) remained unchanged and was unremarkable. Region 4419 (N14W12, Eao/beta-gamma) exhibited little change and remained mostly inactive during the period as well. B-class flare events were recorded during the period related to some filament eruption activity near the equator in the east. No other Earth directed CMEs were observed in coronagraph imagery.

Forecast

Theres a chance for solar activity to be at low levels on 20-22 Apr, primarily due to the flare potential from Region 4419.

Energetic Particles

24 h Summary

The greater than 2 MeV electron flux at geosynchronous orbit reached high levels at 19/1920 UTC with a maximum reading of 1,187 sfu at 19/1925 UTC. The greater than 10 MeV proton flux was at background levels.

Forecast

The greater than 2 MeV electron flux is expected to be at moderate to high levels on 20-22 Apr. The greater than 10 MeV proton flux is expected to continue at background levels on 20-22 Apr.

Solar Wind

24 h Summary

Solar wind parameters were enhanced throughout the period as CH HSS influence continued to dominate the solar wind environment. Total field ranged from 3-12 nT, the Bz component fluctuated between +9/-7 nT and solar wind speeds varied between approximately 440-570 km/s. Phi was mostly in a negative orientation, with isolated oscillations into a positive position.

Forecast

Enhanced solar wind conditions are expected to gradually taper off on 20-21 Apr as the CH HSS moves from its geoeffective position. A return to mostly nominal conditions are expected by 22 Apr.

Geospace

24 h Summary

The geomagnetic field was predominantly at unsettled to active levels with an isolated G1 (Minor) and G2 (Moderate) storm level.

Forecast

A return to unsettled to active conditions is expected on 20-21 Apr, as HSS effects diminish. Quiet to unsettled levels are expected on 22 Apr.