Hi EQF,

The solar data is interesting, but the bottom graph, the kp index is what disturbs communications equipment, such as satellites, telephones and radio.

The solar flares or proton storms as I understand the phenomenon are what influence the Earth and are what are suggested to be triggers for earthquakes in certain area's.

Fortunately Lowell has included the geomagnetic influences in his daily reports which was a real eye opener for me. Don also often cites possible changes in his earthquake forecasts. He makes an allowance so that in case of a geomagnetic storm the anticipated quake may arrive as much as two days earlier than expected or could be as much as .05 to a full magnitude higher. It seems to affect area's that have known volcanic activity, ie: Mammoth Lakes.

Of course using these geomagnetic storms to understand earthquake occurrences is important, but due to their immediate influence, they are not viable for earthquake prediction.

For example, I don't know if you read the posts that were here a few months back where on one particular night I heard a loud left ear tone around 11:30PM. At the time I heard the tone not only was there an X Class Solar Flare, but the quake occurred at the same time. It was most peculiar. So in this example we have a direct immediate affect which triggers the quake and the ear tone event hears it occurring. There was no time to tell anyone.

But learning is fun and that is what makes this board so interesting.

Petra