A ‘severe solar storm’ is headed our way and it could have a major impact on our technology.
Over in the US, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has warned that it could cause technological blackouts starting from tonight (10 May).
It said: “Space weather forecasters have issued a Severe (G4) Geomagnetic Storm Watch for the evening of Friday.”
The Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) warned: “These two sunspot clusters are magnetically complex and much larger than Earth. Together they have been the source of frequent M-class flares (minor to moderate).
“RGN 3664 (the combined sunspot region) continues to grow and increase in magnetic complexity and has evolved into a higher threat of increased solar flare risk.”
Two sunspots have merged to form a much larger feature. (Getty Stock Image)
That all sounds pretty technical, what it means is that two big sunspots have merged and fired out a series of solar flares.
Solar storms have the ability to disrupt power grids, radio systems and the internet, and this is a very strong one.
In fact, the last time one of these storms was listed as ‘severe’ was in 2005.
As for what this means in the UK, the Met Office has warned that solar activity is high, but you should be able to see the storm in the northern half of the UK on the Friday night through to tomorrow morning.
For those of you who live down south, it says there is ‘a chance that aurora may become visible to all parts of the UK’ so don’t count yourself out just yet.
Then again, one of the biggest solar storms we’ve had for years isn’t all just the possibility of seeing pretty lights in the sky.
It’s not going to look exactly like this but you get the gist. (Getty Stock Image)
Radio communications could be affected in the UK, while much more of the US is likely to feel the impact.
Damage to communications and electricity is going to be a danger as solar weather can wreak havoc on electrical grids and satellites.
According to the NOAA: “Geomagnetic storms can impact infrastructure in near-Earth orbit and on Earth’s surface, potentially disrupting communications, the electric power grid, navigation, radio and satellite operations.
“SWPC has notified the operators of these systems so they can take protective action.”
While some people will get to enjoy a light show in the skies, others will be having to batten down the hatches and worry they might be without the internet or electricity for a period of time.
Technology blackouts could last for hours, but the storm’s power is expected to fade as the weekend goes on.
Featured Image Credit: Getty Stock Images
Topics: Space, Science, Weather
Tyler Fields is your internet guru, delving into the latest trends, developments, and issues shaping the online world. With a focus on internet culture, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies, Tyler keeps readers informed about the dynamic landscape of the internet and its impact on our digital lives.
