A "cannibal" solar storm could disrupt GPS, communications systems and power grids across the UK tonight.
The British Geological Survey (BGS) has now upgraded its alert to the highest possible level and said the ongoing storm is already affecting communications and satellite navigation.
It added that a second geomagnetic "cannibal storm", feeding off the first, would begin impacting the UK by Wednesday afternoon.
The latest storm could be the biggest for 20 years, according to the BGS.
The highest alert type (G5) is used to warn people of possible power blackouts, GPS problems lasting days, and problems orienting spacecraft.
What causes a solar storm?
Explaining what causes a solar storm, the BGS states: "Geomagnetic storms are caused by solar activity interacting with the Earth’s magnetic field, which has implications for national energy infrastructure and navigation."
However, the organisation points out that, as is the case for any forecast, it is not possible to say for certain how big or small the impact of a solar storm will be.
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