CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.—Space weather forecasters have warned that a severe solar storm is on its way to Earth, potentially adding stress to power grids already dealing with the aftermath of major hurricanes in the United States.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a severe geomagnetic storm watch for Thursday into Friday following a recent outburst from the sun. This storm could lead to temporary disruptions in power and radio signals.
NOAA has advised power plant operators and spacecraft operators to take necessary precautions. They have also informed the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) about the potential for power disruptions as the country deals with the impact of Hurricane Helene and prepares for Hurricane Milton approaching Florida.
While forecasters do not expect this solar storm to be as strong as the one that hit Earth in May, the most powerful in over two decades, they will not have confirmation until it is closer to Earth and measurable by spacecraft.
According to NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center scientist Rob Steenburgh, Florida is unlikely to experience power disruptions from this solar storm unless it significantly intensifies.
Experts are particularly concerned about the impact on power grids in areas already affected by Hurricane Helene, according to NOAA space weather forecaster Shawn Dahl.
The storm may also lead to northern lights visible in parts of the United States as far south as the lower Midwest and Northern California, although the exact locations and timing are uncertain. Skywatchers are encouraged to capture photos of the auroras with their smartphones, as these devices can often capture auroras that are not visible to the naked eye.
A similar solar storm in May resulted in stunning auroras across the Northern Hemisphere with no significant disruptions reported.
The current solar activity is at its peak as the sun nears the peak of its 11-year cycle.
By Marcia Dunn
