A geomagnetic storm surprised forecasters overnight as material from recent solar eruptions arrived earlier than expected, briefly reaching strong (G3) levels. Now, NOAA has a G3 geomagnetic storm watch in effect as Earth braces for further impacts from multiple coronal mass ejections (CMEs) launched in quick succession from sunspot region AR4274.

The overnight storm was likely triggered by a glancing CME arrival that combined with lingering effects from a high-speed solar wind stream, according to NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC). The result was a strong burst of auroral activity, with sightings reported across Europe, Canada and the northern U.S.

But more solar storms are still on the way, saving the biggest until last. The M7.4 solar flare that erupted on Nov. 5 also rele

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