The US Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a rare G4 Geomagnetic Storm Watch, signaling an impending solar storm set to hit Earth this weekend. This storm, the first of its magnitude since 2005, poses significant threats including major power outages, disruptions to navigation systems, and interference with high-frequency radios globally.
The heightened alert level comes as multiple waves of solar energy are forecasted to impact the planet, with five eruptions from the sun’s atmosphere expected to arrive starting late on Friday and persist through Sunday. Trans-polar flights between Europe, Asia, and North America are anticipated to be rerouted to minimize radiation exposure for passengers and crew members, according to reports from Bloomberg.
Coronal mass ejections (CMEs), explosive events on the sun’s surface involving the release of plasma and magnetic fields, are the driving force behind geomagnetic storms. When directed towards Earth, these CMEs have the potential to induce disruptions in various systems, including communications, the electric power grid, navigation, radio, and satellite operations.
While individuals are shielded by Earth’s magnetic field, unprepared electric grids face the risk of disruption, pipelines may become charged with current, and spacecraft could be knocked off course. The last G5 storm, the worst on the scale, occurred in October 2003, resulting in power outages in Sweden and damage to transformers in South Africa.
Despite the potential risks, geomagnetic storms also offer the spectacle of auroras in Earth’s atmosphere. With the severity of the current storm watch, there exists the possibility for auroras, commonly known as the Northern Lights, to be visible as far south as Alabama and Northern California. Regions across Asia and Europe with clear skies may also witness spectacular displays of auroras, as forecasted by the UK Met Office.
As scientists monitor the inbound bursts of energy from the sun’s eruptions, the true power of this solar storm will be known shortly before it impacts Earth. Authorities and organizations are on high alert, preparing for potential disruptions while also anticipating the breathtaking natural phenomena that may accompany this rare celestial event.
Sources By Agencies
