Date: 2025 Apr 30 0030 UTC
Prepared by the U.S. Dept. of Commerce, NOAA, Space Weather Prediction Center
Solar activity increased to moderate levels (R1-Minor) due to M-class activity from new Regions 4079 (N08E67, Ehi/beta-gamma) and 4078 (N16W61, Cro/beta). The largest flare of the period was an M1.7/1f at 29/0513 UTC from Region 4079. This region appears to be the return of old Region 4055 (N07, L=237) which was a major M-class flare producer on its previous rotation. Foreshortening has hampered analysis of this new group, but it appears to be a large E-type group with a beta-gamma magnetic configuration. Region 4078 produced an M1.3/1n flare at 29/1002 UTC and an M1.6/1n at 29/1057 UTC.Region 4070 (S12W58, Dso/beta) underwent slight consolidation and then decay in its leading spots. The region produced a few weak C-class flares. Region 4072 (S18W18, Dai/beta) increased some mature, trailing penumbra, but was relatively quiet. The remaining regions were quiet and stable.No Earth-directed CMEs were observed.
Forecast: Solar activity is expected to be low with a chance for M-class flares (R1-R2, Minor-Moderate), and a slight chance for X-class flares (R3-Strong) through 02 May.
The greater than 2 MeV electron flux reached moderate levels. The greater than 10 MeV proton flux was at background levels.
Forecast: The greater than 2 MeV electron flux is expected to remain at normal to moderate levels through 02 May. The greater than 10 MeV proton flux is expected to continue at background levels through 02 May.
Solar wind parameters remained slightly enhanced due to waning positive polarity CH HSS influences. Total magnetic field strength ranged from 5-10 nT. The Bz component was primarily northward to 7-8 nT with a few brief southward deflections ranging to -7 nT. Solar wind speeds varied between about 350 km/s to about 460 km/s. Phi was predominantly in a positive solar sector.
Forecast: A return to a mostly ambient-like state is expected for 30 Apr - 01 May. By 02 May, an enhancement in solar wind parameters is likely with the arrival of a recurrent, negative polarity CH HSS.
Forecast: Mostly quiet conditions are expected to prevail through 01 May. Unsettled to active levels, with a chance for G1 (Minor) storming, are expected on 02 May with the onset of CH HSS conditions.