| magnetic storm A disturbance or fluctuation in the Earth's outer magnetosphere, usually caused by streams of charged particles (plasma) given off by solar flares. The entry of large amounts of plasma into the upper atmosphere results in intense auroral displays and other magnetic phenomena in the polar regions of the Earth. See also aurora. |
The effect on the ionosphere of large bursts of charged particles (see electrical charge) from the sun.
Note: During a magnetic storm, radio reception can become very difficult.