Short-term solar effects

Short-term transient events in the solar atmosphere, namely solar flares and coronal mass ejections, can have a direct influence on near-Earth space and human activities. Recent spacecraft observations have revealed the complex, fine-scale, dynamic nature of the Sun's atmosphere. In the light of the recent observational advances we consider the potential for solar event prediction, both in terms of event-onset prediction at the Sun and the prediction of event arrival at the Earth. We stress that this effort requires a significant programme of research into the underpinning science. It is noted that several new and upcoming developments in space missions as well as in on-going studies with existing spacecraft indicate that significant advances should be expected in our ability to make useful predictions of solar activity as part of a space-weather effort.