On May 25, 2025, a significant X1.1 class solar flare erupted from active region AR4098. The flare, which peaked at 01:52 UTC, caused a shortwave radio blackout over the Pacific Ocean.
Solar flares are sudden releases of energy from the Sun, and are classified by strength (A, B, C, M, and X), with X-class being the most powerful. The X1.1 flare originated from a rapidly growing sunspot, AR4098, which has become the dominant feature on the solar disk. This active region also produced several M-class flares, further contributing to heightened solar activity.
The X1.1 flare resulted in an R3-level radio blackout, affecting high-frequency radio communications. While no Earth-directed coronal mass ejections (CMEs) were observed immediately following the flare, scientists are continuing to monitor AR4098 for potential further eruptions and geomagnetic disturbances. Such events can impact satellite operations and Earth's magnetosphere, highlighting the importance of continuous solar monitoring.