Two Powerful Eruptions on the Sun Lead to Widespread Mobile Service Interruptions

Two powerful eruptions have been recorded on the Sun in less than 12 hours, the last occurrence of such an event was seen seven years ago. This was reported to RIA Novosti by the laboratory of solar astronomy at the Russian Academy of Sciences.

"Two eruptions at the highest X-class levels have occurred. The maximum of the first was recorded at night. The second explosion occurred in the morning and continued to develop by noon," the statement said.

According to preliminary estimates, the expelled plasma clouds will pass by the Earth, although at a relatively close distance. The last time such a powerful dual eruption occurred consecutively was in September 2017, noted Professor Sergey Bogachev, head of the laboratory. Such events are exceedingly rare as each eruption depletes solar energy reserves, and significant time is required for recovery.

"The fact that the star can produce two such powerful eruptions in succession speaks to a transition to a state of extremely high solar activity," the scientist stated.

Solar flares are classified into five categories (A, B, C, M, and X) based on the intensity of their X-ray emissions. Since the beginning of 2024, there have already been five high-intensity eruptions on the Sun. Scientists report that the increasing frequency and intensity of eruptions indicate that the Sun is gradually approaching its peak activity, which could occur as early as mid-2024, although some forecasts suggest it could also shift to 2025.

Solar eruptions can cause magnetic storms on Earth, leading to disruptions in energy systems and affecting bird and animal migration patterns. However, if an eruption occurs at a significant distance from the Sun-Earth line, it does not impact the planet.

According to the Associated Press, on February 22, a wave of mass disconnections of mobile phones spread across the United States. Major American mobile operators, including AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, etc., reported interruptions in cellular network operation.