How long will the solar storm last?

The solar storm is expected to linger throughout Thursday, with potential for continued disturbances into the evening in some regions. NOAA notes the storm's strength has fluctuated from G3 to G1 before rising again to a G2 level.

What is the 'South Atlantic Anomaly' and how does it affect Earth?

The South Atlantic Anomaly is a growing 'weak spot' in Earth's magnetic field that allows harmful radiation to come closer to the planet's surface. This can interfere with satellite operations and data collection, potentially worsening the effects of future solar storms.

Home / Science / Powerful Solar Storm Disrupts Power Grids and Satellites Across North America

Powerful Solar Storm Disrupts Power Grids and Satellites Across North America

Q: What is the impact of the solar storm on the United States?

The powerful G3 geomagnetic storm has disrupted power grids, satellites, and GPS systems across the northern United States, with the largest impacts expected near the poles.

10 Nov

•

Summary

Powerful G3 geomagnetic storm striking Earth, disrupting power grids and satellites
Storm expected to linger through Thursday, with potential for auroras in northern US
Scientists warn of growing 'weak spot' in Earth's magnetic field increasing solar risks

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.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.