Prepare for Potential Impact of Severe Geomagnetic Solar Storm on Technology

A severe solar storm, known as a geomagnetic storm, is currently impacting the earth and officials are warning that this astronomical event may have an impact on technology. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) defines a geomagnetic storm as a major disturbance of Earth’s magnetosphere that occurs when there is a very efficient exchange of energy from the solar wind into the space environment surrounding Earth. These storms can produce significant changes in currents, plasmas, and fields in Earth’s magnetosphere.

NOAA has issued a warning about the severe geomagnetic storm that recently hit the earth and is expected to last through the weekend and into next week. This is the first time a solar event of this magnitude (G5) has occurred in over 20 years. The storm could potentially affect communications, global positioning systems, power grids, spacecraft, satellite navigation, and other technologies. Users of high-frequency radio signals may also experience a loss of signal.

Preparation for an extreme geomagnetic storm is crucial. The National Weather Service (NWS) recommends building an emergency kit and making a family communications plan. Other ways to prepare include stocking up on essentials, filling containers with water, keeping gas tanks at least half full, having extra phone batteries or a solar-powered charger, and keeping a non-cordless phone in your home.

While preparation is important, NWS reassures that the vast majority of NOAA Geomagnetic Scale 5 level storms (G5) will not cause catastrophic damage to the electric grid. It’s always better to be prepared for any potential impacts of severe solar storms on technology.