The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said that a strong solar storm—one of the strongest in over 20 years—made landfall on Earth. Power and communication services are expected to be disrupted by the surprise solar outburst for the duration of the weekend and into the following week.
NOAA has issued a warning for a severe geomagnetic storm and has advised operators of power plants and spacecraft to take necessary precautions. Rob Steenburgh, a scientist at
NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, stressed, “For most people here on planet Earth, they won’t have to do anything,” indicating that the immediate effects on daily life might be minimal for the general population.
However, the geomagnetic disturbance is strong enough to produce visible northern lights much farther south in the U.S., reaching as far as Alabama and Northern California.
Ranked as a level 4 event on a 5-point scale, the solar storm primarily poses risks to high-voltage transmission lines and satellites, potentially affecting navigation and communication services on Earth.
Elon Must tweeted on X that major geomagnetic solar storm happening right now. Biggest in a long time. Starlink satellites are under a lot of pressure, but holding up so far.
Major geomagnetic solar storm happening right now. Biggest in a long time. Starlink satellites are under a lot of pressure, but holding up so far. pic.twitter.com/TrEv5Acli2
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 11, 2024
A similar geomagnetic storm in 2003 caused significant power disruptions in Sweden and damage to power transformers in South Africa.
With the sun nearing the peak of its 11-year cycle, heightened solar activity has been observed, including multiple solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) detected since Wednesday. These CMEs, carrying billions of tons of plasma and magnetic fields, could lead to further disturbances in the days ahead.
Nasa has confirmed the safety of the International Space Station’s crew, comprising seven astronauts, with measures in place to mitigate increased radiation levels. The space agency, along with other space-focused organizations, remains vigilant, monitoring the ongoing solar activity.
The storm presents a unique opportunity for scientific observation and public engagement with space weather phenomena. As the event unfolds, authorities recommend that residents in affected areas prepare for potential power outages and safely enjoy the natural spectacle.