Date: 2026 Apr 05 1230 UTC
Prepared by the U.S. Dept. of Commerce, NOAA, Space Weather Prediction Center
Solar activity reached moderate levels. Region 4409 (N02W21, Eai/beta-gamma) produced an M1.2/1f flare (R1-Minor) at 04/1211 UTC and an M1.0 flare (R1) at 04/2304 UTC, in addition to numerous C-class flares throughout the period. The region exhibited minor decay and separation among its leader spots. New Region 4412 (N08E15, Bxo/beta) was numbered and produced a few low-level C-flares late in the period. The remaining spotted regions on the visible disk were either mostly stable or in gradual decay. No Earth-directed CMEs were observed in available coronagraph imagery.
Forecast: Solar activity is likely to reach moderate (R1-R2/Minor-Moderate) levels, with a slight chance for X-class (R3/Strong) flares, over 05-07 Apr, driven primarily by the flare potential of Region 4409.Energetic Particle The greater than 2 MeV electron flux reached high levels with a peak flux of 2,420 pfu at 04/1600 UTC. The greater than 10 MeV proton flux continued a gradual decline towards background levels throughout the period.
Forecast: The greater than 2 MeV electron flux is expected to reach high levels on 05-07 Apr. There is a slight chance for the greater than 10 MeV proton flux to exceed S1 (Minor) solar radiation storm levels over 05-07 Apr.
Solar wind parameters suggested the return of influence from a negative polarity CH HSS. Total magnetic field strength was steady at around 5 nT and no significant periods of southward Bz were observed. Wind speeds gradually declined from ~650 km/s to between 550-600 km/s by the end of the period. Phi angle was predominantly oriented in the negative solar sector.
Forecast: The solar wind environment is expected to remain enhanced through 07 Apr due to waning negative polarity CH HSS influence.
Forecast: The geomagnetic field is expected to reach active levels early on 05 Apr, with quiet to unsettled levels expected on 06-07 Apr, as negative polarity CH HSS influences gradually wane.