A severe solar storm is predicted to impact Earth, potentially putting stress on power grids in the US as the nation grapples with consecutive hurricanes, according to space weather forecasters. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a severe geomagnetic storm watch set for Thursday into Friday following a solar outburst detected earlier in the week. This storm could lead to temporary disruptions in power and radio signals.
NOAA has advised power plant operators and spacecraft controllers to take necessary precautions. The agency has also informed the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) about the potential for power disruptions, amid the ongoing aftermath of Hurricane Helene and the approach of Hurricane Milton towards Florida. While forecasters do not anticipate this solar storm to surpass the intensity of the one that hit Earth in May, considered the strongest in over two decades, the actual impact will only be known when it is about 1 million miles away from Earth, allowing for measurements by spacecraft.
While Florida is not expected to experience significant power disruptions from the solar storm unless it intensifies further, concerns remain for areas already affected by Hurricane Helene, as outlined by NOAA scientist Rob Steenburgh. The possibility of observing northern lights as far south as the lower Midwest and Northern California due to the solar storm exists, although exact locations and timings are uncertain. Spectators are encouraged to point their smartphones skyward to capture potential auroras that may be visible.
The previous solar storm in May led to stunning auroras across the Northern Hemisphere without causing major disruptions. Given that the sun is currently close to the peak of its 11-year cycle, increased solar activity has been observed recently.
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