Severe Solar Storm to Trigger Auroras Across US

auroraPhoto byYuheng OuyangonUnsplash

The northern lights may be visible across much of the U.S. on October 10 and 11 due to a severe G4 geomagnetic storm forecasted as a coronal mass ejection (CME) hits the Earth’s magnetic field. This phenomenon could lead to auroras as far south as Alabama and northern California. CMEs travel at high speeds and interact with Earth's magnetic field, potentially causing voltage control problems in power grids and damaging spacecraft. The charged particles from the CME can lead to the northern lights being seen further from the poles than usual, with different gases emitting different colors of light when excited.

Geomagnetic storms can impact infrastructure globally, affecting communications, navigation systems, and power grids. Stronger storms are ranked on a scale from G1 to G5, with the upcoming G4 storm predicted to cause widespread voltage control issues and disruptions in power grids and satellites. Understanding the potential effects of geomagnetic storms is crucial for mitigating their impact on various systems. The upcoming G4 geomagnetic storm poses significant risks to various systems, especially power grids and satellites, due to voltage control issues and disruptions that could occur. Preparedness measures, such as temporarily shutting down vulnerable systems and implementing protective measures, can help mitigate the impact of such storms. The ability to forecast and understand the behavior of coronal mass ejections is essential for minimizing potential damage and ensuring the resilience of critical infrastructure in the face of geomagnetic disturbances.

Furthermore, public awareness and education regarding geomagnetic storms are crucial in fostering a proactive response to potential disruptions. Stakeholders across different sectors, including government agencies, utilities, and satellite operators, should collaborate on strategies to enhance the resilience of infrastructure and communication systems during periods of heightened geomagnetic activity. By working together and staying informed, we can better anticipate and address the challenges posed by severe geomagnetic storms like the upcoming G4 event.

Source:

https://www.newsweek.com/northern-lights-california-south-aurora-alabama-g4-geomagnetic-storm-1966526