magnetic storm

noun

1. a temporary disturbance of the earth’s magnetic field, induced by radiation and streams of charged particles from the sun.

noun

1. a sudden severe disturbance of the earth’s magnetic field, caused by emission of charged particles from the sun

1. 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.