The Mother's Day geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024: Aurora
Observations and Low Latitude Space Weather Effects in Mexico
Abstract
On May 10, 2024, a severe geomagnetic storm coinciding with Mother’s Day
in Mexico lasted over 40 hours and produced polar auroras observable at
low latitudes. This storm, the most intense since 2003, resulted from a
series of solar flares and coronal mass ejections from active region
3664. The event was significant for space weather studies in Mexico,
marking a milestone by enabling comprehensive measurements of its
effects. The Mexico Space Weather Service (SCIESMEX) and the National
Space Weather Laboratory (LANCE) had prepared for such an event since
their inception. LANCE’s instrument networks recorded solar
chromospheric images, solar radio bursts, geomagnetic variations,
Schumann resonances, ionospheric disturbances, and energetic particle
flows. They also monitored Geomagnetically Induced Currents (GICs) in
four strategic substations of the national electrical system. This
provided unprecedented insights into the dynamics of severe space
weather events at the North-American low-latitude environment. Citizen
science efforts documented auroras and regional responses, capturing
variations in geomagnetic indices, ionospheric disturbances, cosmic ray
fluxes, GICs, and technological impacts. SCIESMEX worked with the
National Civil Protection System (SINAPROC) to issue warnings, ensuring
public awareness and preparedness. This coordination underscores the
importance of effective communication and collaboration in mitigating
impacts. The May 2024 geomagnetic storm demonstrated the critical role
of preparedness, research, and public education in reducing the effects
of future space weather events in Mexico.