Rapid Evolution of Super Equatorial Plasma Bubbles and X‐Pattern EIA Formation During Extreme Storm Conditions on 12 November 2025
Abstract
Abstract Extreme conditions during storms profoundly alter the evolution of equatorial plasma bubbles (EPBs), yet the key dynamics remains poorly understood. We document the rapid expansion, contraction, and decay of super EPBs in South America during the 12 November 2025 storm with Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) Bz/By magnitude exceeding ∼50 nT. These EPBs expanded to ∼37° magnetic latitude with pronounced hemispheric and longitudinal asymmetries and westward tilt. Notably, the equatorial ionization anomaly (EIA) crests retracted into an X‐pattern during suppression. We suggest that eastward prompt penetration electric fields (PPEF) driven by strong IMF Bz caused the rapid expansion, while fast equatorward winds (peaking at 488 m/s vs. typically ∼
Fields of Study & Subjects
Ionosphere and magnetosphere dynamics
Earthquake Detection and Analysis
Solar and Space Plasma Dynamics
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Geophysical Research Letters
- Publisher
- American Geophysical Union (AGU)
- Volume
- 53
- Issue
- 6
- Publication date
- 22 March 2026
- Language
- EN