BOULDER, Colo. - Space weather forecasters have issued a geomagnetic storm watch following an alert from NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center in Boulder, Colorado. The watch warns that a plasma outburst from a solar flare could potentially interfere with radio transmissions on Earth. However, this event also presents an exciting opportunity for the public to witness a dazzling display of auroras.

The public is advised not to be overly concerned, as the storm is not expected to cause any major disruptions. The main impact is likely to be on high-frequency radio transmissions, including those used for aircraft communication with control towers located far distances away. Fortunately, most commercial aircraft have the capability to use satellite transmissions as a reliable backup.

While satellite operators may experience difficulties in tracking their spacecraft, and power grids could witness some slight "induced current" in their lines, these are expected to be manageable situations, according to Jonathan Lash, a forecaster at the Space Weather Prediction Center.

Lash further added that for those situated in higher latitudes and blessed with clear skies at night, this geomagnetic storm provides an excellent opportunity to witness the skies illuminated by captivating auroras. The event coincides with the sun's magnetic field flipping, a phenomenon that occurs approximately every 11 years. This period, known as the solar maximum, is characterized by increased solar activity.

During the solar maximum, geomagnetic storms similar to the one expected to hit Earth on Sunday can occur a few times a year. In contrast, during solar minimum, it may take several years between such storms. In December, a powerful solar flare disrupted radio communications, proving the potential impact of these phenomena.

As the geomagnetic storm watch is in effect until Monday, space weather forecasters will closely monitor the situation to provide timely updates and ensure the public's safety.