Two powerful solar flares, an X1.8-class and an X1.7-class, erupted from the sun on Feb.
21 and Feb.
22.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported no observed Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) yet issued an alert for a solar radio emission.
Widespread cellphone outages were reported in the US following the flares, with major carriers affected.
Solar scientists doubt a direct link between the events, citing the flares' limited impact on Earth.
The effects of the flares may continue, with a potential glancing influence on Earth on Feb.
25.
Solar flares are intense bursts of electromagnetic radiation caused by magnetic energy buildup in the sun's atmosphere.
The sun's activity is increasing as it approaches the solar maximum, potentially leading to more space weather events and auroras worldwide.