Earth today suffers geomagnetic storm that could cut communication

Authorities warned of a severe geomagnetic storm that could cause disruptions to power systems, communications and spacecraft operations this Friday (10). Issued by the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Space Weather Prediction Center, the warning is the first of its kind since 2005, due to recent intense solar activity. A gigantic sunspot, known as Region NOM 3664, has triggered powerful solar ejections, raising concern among space meteorologists.

The SWPC (Space Weather Prediction Center), a division of NOAA, identified at least five coronal mass ejections associated with the flashes, predicting their arrival between today and Sunday (12). These ejections pose a significant threat to communications, navigation systems and satellite operations.

The implications of the geomagnetic storm could be far-reaching, with potential problems in power systems and spacecraft operations. CHigh-frequency radio propagation may also experience interruptions.

The last severe geomagnetic storm occurred in March 2024, with the last extreme storm recorded in October 2003, which resulted in power outages in Sweden and damage to power transformers in South Africa.

Despite the risks to communication, people in the Northern Hemisphere may have the opportunity to witness stunning auroras as a result of the event. Auroras resulting from the storm can be seen as far south as Alabama and Northern California.

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