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MAJOR SOLAR FLARE ALERT

ISSUED: 01:30 UTC, 23 JULY 2002

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A major class X4.8 (1B, possibly a 2B) parallel ribbon solar flare was
observed at 00:35 UTC on 23 July (8:35 pm EDT on 22 July). Although limb
proximity prevented a definitive determination, it appears this event was
associated with a large Moreton wave. Strong radio emissions have been
observed across much of the spectrum. A Type II has thus far been reported
with an estimated shock velocity near 900 km/sec. A Type IV has also been
reported. A tenflare has also been observed, but has not yet been officially
reported. This event was undoubtably associated with another high velocity
CME. However, this won't be known for certain and details regarding its
velocity will be lacking for several hours yet.