By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Article:Officials from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have issued a severe (G4) geomagnetic solar storm watch set to impact Earth on Friday. This alert follows the observation of approximately five earth-directed coronal mass ejections (CMEs), expected to arrive shortly. The alert, detailed in an Insider Paper report, marks the first G4 storm watch issued since 2005 and raises concerns about potential disruptions to critical infrastructure.
‘Severe’ geomagnetic solar storm watch triggered for first time in 19 years https://t.co/lTYnfwhB2J pic.twitter.com/5DXNzxtjKe
— New York Post (@nypost) May 10, 2024
Coronal mass ejections, defined by NOAA, are significant expulsions of plasma and magnetic field from the Sun’s corona, capable of ejecting billions of tons of coronal material into space. These CMEs travel at varying speeds, with the fastest reaching Earth in as little as 15-18 hours, while slower ones can take several days.
The potential impact of these solar storms extends beyond the mesmerizing Northern Lights, typically heightened by such geomagnetic activity. The NOAA warns that the incoming solar storms could disrupt communication systems, the electric grid, navigation, radio frequencies, and satellite operations. These disruptions stem from the intense magnetic fields and solar particles that can interfere with electronic systems both in orbit and on Earth’s surface.
Historically, solar flares and CMEs have posed significant threats, with the most intense known as the 1859 Carrington Event, which crippled telegraph systems globally, causing widespread operational disruptions and physical damage. Modern dependency on satellite and digital technologies could mean that similar events today would have far-reaching effects on various aspects of daily life and safety.
NOAA continues to monitor the situation closely, with updates expected as the CMEs approach Earth. Meanwhile, experts urge infrastructure managers and the public to prepare for potential disturbances that could extend throughout the weekend. The events underline the volatile nature of space weather and its direct implications for technological systems on which modern societies heavily rely.