Meteorologists predict that Earth could be blasted by a geomagnetic storm on Wednesday due to its timing with the autumnal equinox. A coronal mass ejection — when plasma and magnetic particles burst forth from the sun’s surface — occurred on Sunday, the same day as the official start of fall, Space.com reported.

The Earth is prone to more geomagnetic storms during the spring and fall equinoxes than throughout the solstices.

During the solstices, when Earth's poles are pointed towards, the Sun, our planet experiences the least geomagnetic storms. In contrast, data collected between 1932 and 2014 shows geomagnetic storms are twice as likely around the times of the equinoxes, according to Space.com.

Auroras: On a brighter note, the geomagnetic storm might produce spectacular auroras, probably visible in the Southern United States. As of September 17, 2024, solar activity remains at low levels. The most significant flare recorded was a 9.6 from Region 3825 on September 16.

A significant coronal mass ejection (CME)—a massive release of solar materials and magnetic fields—is making its way toward Earth. The coronal mass ejection is triggered by a powerful M3.8 flare from sunspot region AR3835.