Geomagnetic Storm Expected to Hit Earth Today: Potential GPS Issues and Satellite Problems
A powerful geomagnetic storm is set to hit Earth today, causing potential disruptions to GPS systems, satellite operations, and even creating a stunning display of auroras visible further south than usual. This storm is the result of a coronal mass ejection (CME) that was ejected from the sun’s surface on Sunday.
According to models by both NASA and NOAA, the CME is expected to collide with Earth’s magnetic field at around 1 p.m. ET. The collision could lead to geomagnetic storms as intense as G2-class or even G3-class. Space weather physicist Tamitha Skov took to social media to share the news, stating, “Direct Hit! An impressive solar storm launch in the Earth-strike zone means a new chance for aurora by midday Jan 22. We could see a G2-G3 with this one if the magnetic field of the storm is oriented correctly. Amateur radio & GPS users, expect disruptions on Earth’s nightside.”
CMEs are triggered by magnetic activity on the sun’s surface, which flings out massive amounts of solar plasma. These clouds, if directed towards Earth, typically take around 48 to 72 hours to reach our planet. However, some CMEs can arrive much sooner. When the plasma plume collides with Earth’s magnetic field, it can cause disturbances that result in a geomagnetic storm.
Geomagnetic storms are measured on a scale of their strength, ranging from G1 (minor) to G5 (extreme), according to NOAA. The strength of the storm depends on the power of the CME that triggers it. More powerful storms are rarer, with the Earth experiencing approximately 1700 G1 storms, around 100 G4 storms, and only 4 G5 storms during an 11-year solar cycle.
The upcoming solar storm is expected to be a G2, with a possibility of reaching G3. This level of intensity can have several unusual impacts on Earth. Power grids may experience voltage problems, radio wave transmissions can be disrupted, and satellites in close orbit may encounter increased drag, requiring adjustments to their orbits.
Huw Morgan, head of the Solar Physics group at Aberystwyth University, emphasized the disruptive nature and potential damage that these storms can cause to technology. “Whilst these storms cannot harm us or nature directly, they are disruptive and potentially very damaging to technology,” Morgan explained. “Electric currents are induced in Earth’s crust, and this can cause surges and damage to power grids. Communications can be disrupted, and GPS navigation. Air flights at high latitudes are prone to radiation doses, requiring cancellation or rerouting. And there’s a danger to satellites and astronauts.”
In addition to the technological disruptions, geomagnetic storms can also create breathtaking auroras visible in the night sky. More powerful storms can push these auroras further south than usual. G3 storms may result in the Northern Lights being visible from states like Illinois and Oregon, while G5 storms can lead to the aurora being spotted as far south as Florida and southern Texas.
The phenomenon occurs when the plasma from the CME interacts with charged particles in Earth’s atmosphere, causing them to react with gases like nitrogen and oxygen, resulting in a glowing effect. “The magnetic disruption penetrates further into Earth’s magnetosphere, and a larger amount of space plasma is injected into Earth’s system, and this can also reach lower latitudes,” Morgan explained. “This energetic plasma interacts with molecules in Earth’s atmosphere, causing the lights. In a very large storm in 1859 (the Carrington event), the lights were seen at the equator and were very bright.”
As we prepare for the arrival of this geomagnetic storm, it is important to be aware of the potential disruptions it may cause. Stay updated on any announcements from relevant authorities and be prepared for possible issues with GPS navigation, satellite operations, and power grids. And if you’re lucky enough to be in an area where the auroras may be visible, keep an eye on the night sky for a mesmerizing display of natural beauty.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
