The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center has reported one of the biggest geomagnetic storms in decades, which has led to amazing auroras in the night sky from San Francisco to Tasmania. The center has observed at least five Earth-directed coronal mass ejections, which are expected to arrive and persist through the weekend. While geomagnetic storms usually have minimal impact on Earth, they can potentially disrupt radio communications, satellites, and power grids. Operators of these systems have been advised to take protective action to mitigate any potential disruptions.
In extreme cases, geomagnetic storms can cause significant power outages and problems with satellite systems and radio communications. The Washington Post notes that anyone using high-frequency radio in the aurora viewing zone may experience some disruptions, but most people will not be affected or need to take special precautions. In the event of power grid disruptions, wireless carriers generally have backups and can deploy mobile cellular towers to maintain service. Severe geomagnetic storms present unique opportunities to witness jaw-dropping auroras in the night sky, with the plasma they carry creating brilliant displays of colorful lights.
The Space Weather Prediction Center has highlighted the potential for auroras to be seen as far south as Alabama and Northern California during severe geomagnetic storms. NOAA has created experimental viewlines for watching the auroras and a 30-minute aurora forecast that shows the last 24 hours of activity. Bill Murtagh, program coordinator at the center, likened the experience of seeing an aurora to hunting or fishing, requiring patience and the perfect combination of events to witness the spectacle. Those living in urban areas may have a disadvantage due to light pollution, inhibiting their ability to see stars and planets, while unpredictable weather conditions can also impact aurora sightings.
Many people travel to locations like Alaska, northern countries, Anchorage, Fairbanks, Yukon, Helsinki, and northern Scandinavia in the hopes of seeing and photographing an aurora. Trip planners now organize tours focusing on aurora sightings, as these natural light shows can be unpredictable and require specific conditions to occur. While geomagnetic storms can disrupt infrastructure and communications, they also provide a unique opportunity to witness awe-inspiring displays of auroras in the night sky, with the potential for viewing them in unexpected locations further south than usual.
