Powerful Solar Storm Disrupts Power Grids and Satellites Across North America

A major solar storm is currently striking Earth, disrupting the planet's magnetic field and putting power grids, satellites, and GPS systems across the northern United States at risk. The G3-level geomagnetic storm, considered 'strong,' began late Wednesday night and is expected to linger throughout Thursday.

The storm's effects peaked between 1:27 AM and 2 AM ET on Thursday morning, but the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) notes the solar event is still at G2 strength heading into the afternoon. This storm is the result of multiple solar eruptions, including flares and coronal mass ejections, that have been detected since November 3rd.

While the largest impacts are expected near the poles, the storm's reach could extend as far south as Pennsylvania, Iowa, and Oregon. States including New York, Vermont, and the Dakotas were all in range to see auroras at the storm's peak. Power companies have taken steps to prevent problems, but NOAA warns disturbances could continue into Thursday evening in some regions.

Experts have also raised concerns about a growing 'weak spot' in Earth's magnetic field, known as the South Atlantic Anomaly, that has been allowing harmful radiation to come closer to the planet's surface. This 'dent' in the magnetic field can interfere with satellite operations and data collection, potentially worsening the effects of future solar storms.