01/20/2026
If you are feeling like your energy is intense or you feel wired, ungrounded, or on edge today, you are certainly not alone.
Following yesterday's powerful X1.9 Class solar flare, we are now in the middle of an extremely rare S4 Severe solar radiation storm. This is a major deal because we haven't seen levels this high since the famous Halloween storms back in 2003. It is the 3rd strongest since records began.
When solar energy hits this level of intensity, it can impact people in ways that aren't always talked about in basic weather reports. Some individuals find that their sleep is disrupted or they wake up feeling unrefreshed despite a full night's rest. You might notice a strange sense of restlessness, a bit of extra "brain fog," or even a sudden spike in irritability and anxiety.
This happens because our own bodies have subtle electrical systems that can feel the shift in the Earth's magnetic field. While the atmosphere protects our physical bodies from the actual radiation, the electromagnetic shift is something many sensitive people feel energetically as a change in their internal pace or mood.
Researchers have found direct links between high solar activity and disrupted sleep, increased irritability, heightened anxiety, and even physical changes like blood pressure spikes.
The technical side of this storm is just as active. Because this is an S4 event, it is considered severe and is still getting stronger by the minute.
An S4 storm is the second-highest level on the NOAA scale and occurs when high-energy protons are accelerated to incredible speeds, bombarding the space around Earth.
This specific storm has intensified quickly, and measurements from the GOES-19 satellite show that the levels are still increasing.
The main impacts are being felt by satellites in space and planes flying near the poles. For example, airlines often reroute flights away from the polar regions during S4 storms to avoid radiation exposure for passengers and crew. These high-speed particles can also cause glitches in satellite memory, which might lead to temporary issues with satellite radio or internet services.
For those of us on the ground, the biggest thing to watch for is a massive change in our night sky. This storm is practically a guarantee for spectacular light shows.
Over the next 24 to 48 hours, the aurora will likely be visible much further south than usual. If you live in a place that almost never sees the Northern or Southern Lights, you should definitely look up tonight and tomorrow night.
The energy is so high that the auroral oval is being pushed toward the equator, making this a once-in-a-generation viewing opportunity for many.
Beyond the lights, there are some practical things to keep in mind. High-frequency radio used by ships and planes might cut out, and GPS could be a little less accurate than normal for a few days because the radiation disturbs the ionosphere.
Even though the energy feels high, this is a natural cycle of the sun reaching its peak. It is a rare chance to witness the true power of our star. Take some time to breathe, stay hydrated if you feel that physical tension, and enjoy the rare celestial show.
Shared via Alex Myles
