Impending Solar Storm Threatens Earth with Potential Internet Blackouts Today
Forecasters are sounding alarms about an approaching solar storm, scientifically termed a coronal mass ejection (CME), which could disrupt internet, radio, and GPS services.
Space weather physicist Dr. Tamitha Skov cautioned that the solar storm might interfere with Earth’s magnetic field, impacting GPS and communication services globally. Additionally, the storm could create mesmerizing auroras.
In a post on X, Dr. Skov explained, “The storm is predicted to hit Earth by midday on December 1. Along with two earlier storms already en route means we have a 1, 2, 3-punch. If the magnetic field is oriented correctly, expect #aurora to reach deep into mid-latitudes. Amateur #radio & #GPS reception issues are likely, especially on Earth’s nightside. G3+ conditions are possible with this storm series.”
Solar storms are classified on a scale from one to five, with five being the most severe. A G3 grading suggests the potential for the solar storm to disrupt satellite navigation and radio navigation.
Yourweather.com notes that a G3 solar storm ‘has the ability to cause power fluctuations in power grids, difficulties in power grid control, impacts on satellite navigation, and auroras visible at lower than normal latitudes.’
The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reassured the public that ‘the general public need not be concerned,’ and ‘infrastructure operators have been notified to take action to mitigate possible impacts.’
The solar storm also raises the likelihood of visible auroras in the UK. The Met Office stated, “This activity brings a chance of visible aurora to parts of the UK today and to a lesser extent tomorrow (1st and 2nd Dec). However, the strongest activity is currently expected to occur during daylight hours, although there is a chance of views of the aurora as far south as northern England, Wales, and Northern Ireland given good views of the northern horizon early into the coming night.”
A Met Office spokesperson informed the Daily Mail that the aurora should be visible with the naked eye, but a decent camera may enhance the experience. They added, “Cameras help as the long exposure allows loads of light in and enhances the colors more than the human eye can see. That is why you see pictures as far south as Cornwall sometimes, though you’re unlikely to ever be able to see it with the naked eye that far south. Of course, there is a much better chance of seeing anything away from urban areas due to light pollution.”
