A very strong solar flare measuring M8.7 at its peak time (R2 - Moderate Radio blackout) erupted from geoeffective Active Region 2242 ('beta-gamma-delta') at 04:50 UTC today. This was a long duration event which started at 04:25 and ended at 05:20 UTC.
The event was associated with a Type II (estimated velocity of 910 km/s) and Type IV radio emissions. Type II emissions occur in association with eruptions on the Sun and typically indicate a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) is associated with a flare event. Type IV emissions occur in association with major eruptions on the Sun and are typically associated with strong CMEs and solar radiation storms.
Judging by the position of this region and radio signatures it is fair to say that Earth-directed CME is possible, however, further imagery is needed to determine whether a CME actually departed and if it is Earth directed.
