What is a solar storm?

Arabia Weather - Planet Earth is now witnessing a rare natural phenomenon, as the sky sparkles with a series of solar flares and coronal mass ejections, which may lead to an expansion of the scene across the northern hemisphere, as a result of the recent solar storm.

However, alongside the stunning aurora borealis, concerns are emerging about potential disruptions to Earth's communications networks, tonight and into the weekend, due to that storm. So what is a solar storm ?

What is a solar storm?

Answer: A solar storm is an astronomical phenomenon that occurs when electrical currents from the Sun collide with the Earth's atmosphere. These storms are caused by the rush of charged particles, such as in the Sun itself, as a result of solar activity. Solar storms can cause interference with radio communications, disrupt global positioning systems (GPS), damage satellites, and, in some rare cases, cause destruction to electronic devices on Earth. If the storm is severe, it can affect the electrical grid and cause power outages.

A strong solar storm affecting Earth in 2024

According to ndtv, the rarity of this solar storm dates back to October 2003, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Space Weather Prediction Center, making it a major celestial event that the world has not seen in many years.

Scientist Bill Nye expressed concerns about the effects of a solar storm on our technology-dependent society. In comparison to the Carrington Event of 1859, Nye emphasized the vulnerability posed by our heavy reliance on electricity and electronics, stressing the potential repercussions in the event of disruptions, according to CNN.

While scientist Bill Nye expressed his concerns about the effects of the solar storm on our technology-dependent society, and in comparison to the Carrington Event in 1859, Nye emphasized the vulnerability posed by our heavy dependence on electricity and electronics, stressing the potential repercussions in the event of disturbances, according to what CNN reported. .

Despite existing mitigation measures, Nye warned that infrastructure, especially transformers, may not be adequately equipped to withstand the onslaught of such a solar event, leaving room for unforeseen complications.

The intensity of the geomagnetic storm escalated to an “extreme” level, rated 5 out of 5 by the Space Weather Prediction Center, representing a major escalation in solar activity not seen since 2003.

This increase in solar activity manifests itself in the form of a mesmerizing aurora, illuminating Earth's poles in bright colorful displays. However, increased solar activity also poses risks to communications networks, satellite operations, and high-frequency radio communications.

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A strong solar storm is on its way to Earth tomorrow, Saturday

Will the solar storm cut off the Internet?

Answer: Scientists warn that increased solar flares and coronal mass ejections from the Sun could disrupt communications on Earth until the end of the week. The Sun, which is currently going through a phase of increased activity known as solar maximum, is expected to continue its strong performance until Mid to late 2024.

Solar cycles, characterized by fluctuations in sunspot activity, are the main driver of the Sun's behavior, as it moves from periods of relative calm to intense activity, and then back again. The current cycle, Solar Cycle 25, has exceeded expectations in terms of activity, as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Space Weather Prediction Center noted.

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The largest solar storm in 20 years will hit the Earth today... What is the truth about the Internet outage?