Janice R. Andrews
An intense solar storm is forecasted to impact electrical grids, radar systems, and satellites across the northern hemisphere in the coming days. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a high-level geomagnetic storm alert following the detection of a major solar flare. This event is expected to enhance aurora visibility, potentially making the northern lights observable from locations as far south as London and northern California on Thursday, October 10.
While the spectacular auroral displays are eagerly anticipated, the storm’s technological repercussions could be significant. Electrical grids in regions recently affected by hurricanes, such as North Carolina, may experience disruptions. The storm is also anticipated to interfere with satellite communications and radar operations.
NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center coordinator, Shawn Dahl, indicated that the storm’s effects could persist for up to 36 hours, spanning from Thursday through Friday night. The full intensity of the storm will be determined once the solar particles pass by NASA’s Advanced Composition Explorer (ACE) and Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR) satellites, positioned approximately one million miles from Earth. These spacecraft will provide a 15- to 30-minute advance notice before the storm reaches our planet.
This warning will enable power grid operators to implement protective measures, especially in areas already coping with storm-related damage. NOAA scientist Rob Steenburgh offered reassurance that Florida is unlikely to experience power outages from this solar event unless its strength increases unexpectedly.
Although this solar storm is significant, it is not expected to rival the severity of historical events like the 1989 Quebec blackout or the solar storm of May 2024. Nevertheless, authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to minimize potential disruptions.
